Article

The purpose of this case report is to determine the effects of exercise
training using body weight-supported treadmill walking (BWSTW) with an
18-year-old male diagnosed with Cerebral palsy (CP) who was non-ambulatory and
not receiving physical therapy. Case description: Outcome measures included the
Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), the Pediatric Evaluation of
Disability Inventory (PEDI), heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion,
3-minute walk test and physiological cost index (PCI). BWSTW sessions took place
twice a week for 6 weeks with a reduction of approximately 40% of the patient's weight. Results: Over-ground 3-minute walk test distance and PCI were essentially
unchanged. BWSTW exercise time increased by 67% with a 43% increase in speed
while average working HR decreased by 8%. BWSTW PCI decreased by 26%. PedsQL
parent report improved in all domains. PedsQL self-report demonstrated a mild
decrease. PEDI showed improvements in self-care and mobility. Discussion:
Exercise utilizing BWSTW resulted in a positive training effect for this young
adult with CP who was non-ambulatory. Developing effective and efficient
protocols for exercise training utilizing BWSTW may aid in the use of this form
of exercise and further quantify outcomes. Ensuring that young adults with CP
have safe and feasible options to exercise and be physically active on a regular
basis is an important role of a physical therapist.

Langue : ANGLAIS