Publication:

Effects of lower limb strength training on gross motor functions in children with cerebral palsy

Background In cerebral palsy children muscular performance may be compromised by deleterious, changes in muscle tissue properties and co-activation of antagonist muscle strength. Resistance training has become an increasingly common intervention aiming to improve function by increasing muscular strength. So, the objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of strength training with Theraband on functional activities of cerebral palsy children by using Gross motor functional measurement (GMFM) scale.

Methods The experimental study was done on 12 cerebral palsy children who fit under study criteria. The strength training was given 3 times in a week for 6 weeks by using Theraband as resistance training.

Results The results of the present study show significant difference (P <0.005) in pre and post score of GMFM component D and E after strength training. Also, there is 9.49% improvement in GMFM component ‘D’ and 6.39% improvement in component ‘E’ post treatment.

Conclusions There is an improvement in gross motor function in particular standing, walking, running and jumping after 6 weeks of functional strength training program in children with cerebral palsy.