Article

Children with cerebral palsy may benefit from maintaining a high level
of physical fitness similar to typically developing children especially in terms
of long-term physical performance, although in practice this is often difficult.
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of participation in sports
programs on walking ability and endurance over time. DESIGN: A retrospective
cohort study included participants with cerebral palsy, aged 6 to 20 yrs, who
attended a summer sports program from 2004 to 2012. There were 256 participant
sessions with pre/post data recorded. The participants consisted of a total of 97
children (mean age [SD] = 11.4 [3.1] yrs), many of whom attended multiple
programs throughout the years. Programs were held 6 hrs/d, 5 d/wk for up to 4
wks. Outcome measures included the Timed Up and Go, modified 6-min walk, and
25-ft walk/run. RESULTS: The results showed significant improvements in the Timed
Up and Go, modified 6-min walk distance and 25-ft walk/run over time. Children in
Gross Motor Classification System level III made the largest gains. CONCLUSIONS:
Walking ability and endurance seem to improve after participation in an intensive
summer sports programs. Higher frequency of program attendance resulted in
significant improvements in the Timed Up and Go. TO CLAIM CME CREDITS: Complete
the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at
http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of this
article, the reader should be able to: (1) Discuss the importance of physical
activity at the participation level (sports programs) for children with cerebral
palsy; (2) Contrast the changes in walking ability and endurance for children in
Gross Motor Function Classification System level I, II, and III after sports
programs; and (3) Identify the impact of higher frequency of sports program
attendance over time on walking ability. LEVEL: Advanced ACCREDITATION: The
Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council
for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for
physicians.The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based
CME activity for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians
should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in
the activity.

Langue : ANGLAIS