Downstream Effects of Personalized 'Top-down' Participation-based Interventions Among Youth With Physical Disabilities

Launched by MCGILL UNIVERSITY · Mar 13, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how participating in community activities can help improve the health and well-being of young people with physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and spinal cord injuries. The researchers believe that when these youth engage in activities they choose, like sledge hockey or playing a musical instrument, it can lead to better movement, focus, and emotional health. They will be looking at how these activities affect important body functions over an 8-week period.

To take part in the study, young people aged between 4 and 17 living in Quebec or Ontario must have a physical disability that limits their mobility. This includes various conditions that make it difficult to navigate safely without help. The study welcomes youth with different diagnoses, including those who may have challenges with communication or understanding. Participants can expect to choose an activity that interests them and then be monitored before, during, and after their engagement in that activity. The findings from this research could help shape better support for youth with physical disabilities and encourage more participation in community life, which is crucial for their overall well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • a physical disability (e.g., due to cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, non progressive musculoskeletal disorders, juvenile arthritis);
• • restricted mobility, such as an inability to navigate all surfaces and stairs independently and safely without the use of aids, physical assistance, or external support;
• • youth with various diagnoses will be eligible;
• • youth with cognitive and communication issues and/or intellectual delay will be included and a proxy version of self-reported assessments will be used.
• • living in the province of Quebec or Ontario
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • youth who are recovering within the first year following a severe brain injury or an orthopedic surgery or botulinum toxin treatment 6 months prior or anticipated during the study period
• • youth with degenerative disorders
• • youth with a severe untreated mental health condition will also be excluded based on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6)