Article

Contemporary approaches to the treatment of cerebral
palsy (CP) advocate a task-specific approach that emphasizes repetition and
practice of specific tasks. Recent studies suggest that body-weight-supported
treadmill training (BWSTT) programs may be beneficial in clinical settings. The
purposes of this case series were to explore the outcomes and feasibility of a
home-based BWSTT program for three children with CP. CASE DESCRIPTION: Three
children with CP at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels III
or IV participated in this case series. Examination included the Functional
Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ), the 10-meter walk test, the Gross Motor Function
Measure (GMFM-66), and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer
Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT). A harness system was used to conduct the BWSTT program
over an 8-12 week period. OUTCOMES: All of the families reported enjoying the
BWSTT program and found the harness easy to use. Participant 2 increased from a 2
to a 4 on the FAQ, while Participant 3 increased from a 6 to a 7. DISCUSSION: Two
of the participants demonstrated post-intervention improvements in functional
mobility. In addition to mobility outcomes, future research should explore the
potential health benefits of a home-based BWSTT program.

Langue : ANGLAIS