Article

The aim of the study was to determine whether applying an assistance
force to the pelvis and legs during treadmill training can improve walking
function in children with cerebral palsy. DESIGN: Twenty-three children with
cerebral palsy were randomly assigned to the robotic or treadmill only group. For
participants who were assigned to the robotic group, a controlled force was
applied to the pelvis and legs during treadmill walking. For participants who
were assigned to the treadmill only group, manual assistance was provided as
needed. Each participant trained 3 times/wk for 6 wks. Outcome measures included
walking speed, 6-min walking distance, and clinical assessment of motor function,
which were evaluated before, after training, and 8 wks after the end of training,
and were compared between two groups. RESULTS: Significant increases in walking
speed and 6-min walking distance were observed after robotic training (P = 0.03),
but no significant change was observed after treadmill training only. A greater
increase in 6-min walking distance was observed after robotic training than that
after treadmill only training (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Applying a controlled
force to the pelvis and legs, for facilitating weight-shift and leg swing,
respectively, during treadmill training may improve walking speed and endurance
in children with cerebral palsy. 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
GMFCS level I, II and III following 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 0.5 AMA
PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with
the extent of their participation in the activity.

Langue : ANGLAIS