Homebased (6-week) Stretching Intervention in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Launched by UNIVERSITAIRE ZIEKENHUIZEN KU LEUVEN · May 21, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new approach to help children with spastic cerebral palsy improve their movement and muscle function. The study involves a 6-week stretching program that starts with a 2-week period of casting (using a soft cast to help stretch the muscles) followed by a home-based stretching routine. Researchers want to see how this program affects muscle and tendon length, flexibility, stiffness, and overall strength in children between the ages of 4 and 11 who have a certain level of mobility.

To participate in this study, children must have a confirmed diagnosis of spastic cerebral palsy and score between I and III on the Gross Motor Function Classification Score (which measures their ability to move). They should be able to understand instructions and cooperate during the tests. However, children who are non-ambulatory (unable to walk), have had specific treatments or surgeries recently, or have certain other medical conditions will not be eligible. If selected, participants can expect to engage in a structured program designed to enhance their muscle function, with the goal of improving their overall mobility and quality of life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Confirmed diagnosis of spastic cerebral palsy
• • Aged 4-12 years
• • GMFCS levels I-III (GMFCS = Gross Motor Function Classification Score, expressing the overall functional level of impairment)
• • Sufficient cooperation to comprehend and complete the test procedure
• • Indication for casting of the lower limb
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Non-ambulatory
• • Botulinum toxin A injections six months prior to enrollment
• • Lower limb surgery two years prior to enrollment
• • Selective dorsal rhizotomy as treatment history
• • Presence of ataxia or dystonia
• • Cognitive problems that impede measurements
• • Severe co-morbidities (severe epilepsy, non-correctable visual impairment, autism spectrum disorders, mental problems that prevent comprehensiveness of the tasks)