Article

This systematic review provides an overview of the effectiveness of
basic techniques used in lower limb physical therapy of children with cerebral
palsy. It aims to support the development of clinical guidelines for
evidence-based physical therapy planning for these children. DATA SOURCES : A literature search in 5 electronic databases extracted
literature published between January 1995 and December 2009. Studies were
evaluated using the framework recommended by the American Academy for Cerebral
Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM), which classifies outcomes according to
the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. DATA EXTRACTION: Three independent evaluators rated the strength of evidence of the
effects according to the AACPDM levels of evidence classification, and the
quality of the studies according to the AACPDM conduct score system. DATA
SYNTHESIS: A total of 83 studies was selected and divided into categories
(stretching, massage, strengthening, electrical stimulation, weight-bearing,
balance-, treadmill- and endurance training). Interventions targeting problems at
body function and structure level generally influenced this level without
significant overflow to activity level and vice versa. CONCLUSION: The more
recent studies evaluating strength training mainly demonstrated level II evidence
for improved gait and gross motor function.
There was limited evidence for
specific information on intensity, duration and frequency of training.

Langue : ANGLAIS