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Gefen N, Weiss PL, Rigbi A, Rosenberg L. Lessons learned from a pediatric powered mobility lending program. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:2250-2259. [PMID: 37897432 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2023.2276232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate children's characteristics and impact of a powered wheelchair lending program including comparisons of diagnostic sub-groups, and validation of a predictive model of powered mobility proficiency. METHODS AND MATERIALS This retrospective study included 172 children who participated in the ALYN powered mobility lending program from 3/2009-7/2022. Demographics and functional levels were measured via questionnaires; driving proficiency was evaluated when the wheelchair was returned, and parents and children were interviewed following their participation in the program. RESULTS Two diagnostic groups were identified: cerebral palsy (CP) (n = 136, median = 9.75 yrs) and other neuromuscular diseases (NMD) (n = 30, median = 5.83 yrs). They differed significantly in the age they commenced PM training, the male/female ratio, walking ability and access mode. Fifty-seven percent of the participants with CP achieved powered mobility proficiency, a rate that was significantly lower than the 73% proficiency found for the NMD group. Four significant predictors were identified: communication, manual wheelchair operation, access mode and go-stop upon request. They predicted proficiency in approximately 80% of cases. Overall feedback from the parents and children indicated that their personal and family's quality of life improved as a result of their child's ability to use a powered wheelchair. CONCLUSIONS A lending program provides children with opportunities to improve mobility skills in an appropriate powered wheelchair. Children who can communicate verbally, propel a manual wheelchair, use a joystick and go-stop upon request are significantly more likely to become proficient drivers; however, many who were unable to complete these tasks also improved and even became proficient drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Gefen
- ALYN Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
- PARC Research Center, ALYN Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Patrice L Weiss
- PARC Research Center, ALYN Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
- Dept. of Occupational Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Amihai Rigbi
- Faculty of Education, Beit Berl College, Kfar-Sava, Israel
| | - Lori Rosenberg
- School of Occupational Therapy, Hebrew University, Israel
- Ilanot Special Education School, Jerusalem, Israel
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Hoffman ME, Steele KM, Froehlich JE, Winfree KN, Feldner HA. Off to the park: a geospatial investigation of adapted ride-on car usage. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:1890-1898. [PMID: 37688446 PMCID: PMC10924068 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2023.2248218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adapted ride-on cars (ROC) are an affordable, power mobility training tool for young children with disabilities. Previous qualitative research has identified environmental factors, such as weather and adequate drive space, as barriers to families' adoption of their ROC. However, we do not currently know the relationship between the built environment and ROC usage. MATERIALS AND METHODS In our current study, we quantified the driving patterns of 14 children (2.5 ± 1.45 years old, 8 male: 6 female) using ROCs outside and inside of their homes over the course of a year using a custom datalogger and geospatial data. To measure environmental accessibility, we used the AccessScore from Project Sidewalk, an open-source accessibility mapping initiative, and the Walk Score, a measure of neighborhood pedestrian-friendliness. RESULTS The number of play sessions with the ROC ranged from 1 to 76; 4 participants used it less than 10 times and 4 participants used it more than 50 times. Our findings indicate that more play sessions took place indoors, within the participants' homes. However, when the ROC was used outside the home, children engaged in longer play sessions, actively drove for a larger portion of the session, and covered greater distances. Most children tended to drive their ROCs in close proximity to their homes, with an average maximum distance from home of 181 meters. Most notably, we found that children drove more in pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and when in proximity to accessible paths. CONCLUSIONS The accessibility of the built environment is paramount when providing any form of mobility device to a child. Providing an accessible place for a child to move, play, and explore is critical in helping a child and family adopt the mobility device into their daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia E Hoffman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Katherine M Steele
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jon E Froehlich
- Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kyle N Winfree
- School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems, Northern AZ University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Heather A Feldner
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Paleg GS, Williams SA, Livingstone RW. Supported Standing and Supported Stepping Devices for Children with Non-Ambulant Cerebral Palsy: An Interdependence and F-Words Focus. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:669. [PMID: 38928915 PMCID: PMC11203597 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Children functioning at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels IV-V cannot maintain an aligned standing position or take steps without support. Upright positioning and mobility devices have psycho-social significance for these children and their families, enhancing use of vision, communication, functioning and emotional well-being. Standers and supported stepping devices facilitate opportunities for biomechanical loading, potentially helping to build and maintain muscle and bone integrity, and they promote physical development. However, families are often required to choose between these two devices for their young child. This study aims to synthesize evidence for use and benefits of both supported standing and stepping devices through the lens of two contemporary theoretical frameworks to support clinical reasoning and implementation. The F-words for childhood development (functioning, family, fitness, fun, friends, future) and the interdependence-Human Activity Assistive Technology (iHAAT) models were combined to illustrate the complex interactions between the child, family, caregivers, peers and contextual factors when implementing standing and stepping devices with children at GMFCS levels IV and V. Supported standing and stepping devices provide complementary benefits, and both may be necessary starting at 9-15 months. We propose they both be included ON-Time, along with other age-appropriate positioning and mobility devices, to promote more equitable developmental opportunities for children with non-ambulant cerebral palsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sian A. Williams
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6009, Australia;
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Roslyn W. Livingstone
- Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada;
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Sloane BM, Kenyon LK, Logan SW, Feldner HA. Caregiver perspectives on powered mobility devices and participation for children with cerebral palsy in Gross Motor Function Classification System level V. Dev Med Child Neurol 2024; 66:333-343. [PMID: 37515376 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM To describe caregiver experiences, perceptions, and device preferences between a modified ride-on car (MROC) and an Explorer Mini, including perceived changes in participation, barriers, and benefits for young children with cerebral palsy (CP) classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level V. METHOD A subset of data were analyzed from a larger multisite study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 caregivers of children with CP in GMFCS level V across a 16-week trial with two mobility devices. Each interview was audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using constant comparison methods. RESULTS Seven of 10 caregivers preferred the Explorer Mini over the MROC. Four themes emerged. One related to the perceived benefits and barriers of each device (ease and convenience is essential) and three related to perceived changes in participation: (1) autonomy enacted through mobility; (2) belonging and being present; and (3) participation recognized as an area of growth. INTERPRETATION Despite limited consideration of powered mobility for this population, caregivers of children in GMFCS level V reported similar benefits and barriers compared to children in other GMFCS levels shown in the literature. Particularly, caregivers perceived positive changes in their child's participation and recognized the ability for continued improvements in participation when using powered mobility. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Children with cerebral palsy classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System level V are often excluded from powered mobility use and research. Despite this, caregivers reported positive experiences for their children. Caregivers felt that participation in powered mobility led to increased autonomy and overall sense of inclusion and belonging for their children. Most caregivers preferred the Explorer Mini over the modified ride-on car but recognized that both devices had benefits and barriers to use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa K Kenyon
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Samuel W Logan
- College of Health, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Heather A Feldner
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Hidalgo Robles Á, Paleg GS, Livingstone RW. Identifying and Evaluating Young Children with Developmental Central Hypotonia: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Tools. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:493. [PMID: 38391868 PMCID: PMC10887882 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Children with developmental central hypotonia have reduced muscle tone secondary to non-progressive damage to the brain or brainstem. Children may have transient delays, mild or global functional impairments, and the lack of a clear understanding of this diagnosis makes evaluating appropriate interventions challenging. This overview aimed to systematically describe the best available evidence for tools to identify and evaluate children with developmental central hypotonia aged 2 months to 6 years. A systematic review of systematic reviews or syntheses was conducted with electronic searches in PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Google Scholar, and PEDro and supplemented with hand-searching. Methodological quality and risk-of-bias were evaluated, and included reviews and tools were compared and contrasted. Three systematic reviews, an evidence-based clinical assessment algorithm, three measurement protocols, and two additional measurement tools were identified. For children aged 2 months to 2 years, the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination has the strongest measurement properties and contains a subset of items that may be useful for quantifying the severity of hypotonia. For children aged 2-6 years, a clinical algorithm and individual tools provide guidance. Further research is required to develop and validate all evaluative tools for children with developmental central hypotonia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ginny S Paleg
- Physical Therapist, Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program, Rockville, MD 20825, USA
| | - Roslyn W Livingstone
- Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
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Lammers J, Smith B. Therapeutic Play Gym: Feasibility of a Caregiver-Mediated Exercise System for NICU Graduates with Neuromuscular Weakness-A Case Series. Pediatr Phys Ther 2024; 36:105-112. [PMID: 38227756 DOI: 10.1097/pep.0000000000001071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the feasibility and effect of caregiver-mediated exercise training using a novel Therapeutic Play Gym in 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) graduates with rare neuromuscular diseases. SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS Caregivers of 3 medically complex, technology-dependent NICU graduates could not access community-based rehabilitation services after discharging from lengthy initial hospitalizations. These children, diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 0, untreated X-linked myotubular myopathy, and untreated nemaline myopathy 3 (NEM3), completed monthly consultations with a pediatric clinical specialist and 3 assessment appointments. The caregivers agreed to administer a progressive Therapeutic Play Gym home exercise program at a minimum frequency of 3×/wk for 6 months. CONCLUSION A monthly consultative approach was both feasible and effective to safely progress caregiver-mediated home exercise training using a novel Therapeutic Play Gym. Positive training effects emerged in fitness, function, and caregiver-reported quality of life domains. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE A strong therapist-caregiver alliance can empower families to perform guided training when community resources are limited. More research is needed to see whether this training model is feasible for children with other conditions; for use in hospital, outpatient, or educational settings; and as an adjuvant exercise treatment for children receiving disease-modifying interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Lammers
- Department of Pediatrics (Ms Lammers), Powell Center for Rare Disease Research and Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Physical Therapy (Dr Smith), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Srinivasan S, Amonkar N, Kumavor P, Morgan K, Bubela D. Outcomes Associated with a Single Joystick-Operated Ride-on-Toy Navigation Training Incorporated into a Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy Program: A Pilot Feasibility Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13050413. [PMID: 37232651 DOI: 10.3390/bs13050413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Our research aims to evaluate the utility of joystick-operated ride-on-toys (ROTs) as therapeutic adjuncts to improve upper extremity (UE) function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (HCP). This study assessed changes in affected UE use and function following a three-week ROT navigation training incorporated into an existing constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) camp in 11 children (3-14 years old) with HCP. We report changes in scores on the standardized Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation (SHUEE) from pretest-to-posttest and changes from early-to-late sessions in percent time spent by the affected arm in: (a) "moderate-to-vigorous activity", "light activity" and "no activity" bouts based on accelerometer data and (b) "independent", "assisted", and "no activity" bouts based on video data. We also explored relationships between standardized measures and training-specific measures of affected UE activity. We found small-to-medium improvements in the SHUEE scores. Between 90 and 100% of children also showed medium-to-large improvements in affected UE activity from early-to-late sessions using accelerometers and small improvements via video-based assessments. Exploratory analyses suggested trends for relationships between pretest-posttest and training-specific objective and subjective measures of arm use and function. Our pilot data suggest that single joystick-operated ROTs may serve as motivating, child-friendly tools that can augment conventional therapies such as CIMT to boost treatment dosing, promote affected UE movement practice during real-world navigation tasks, and ultimately improve functional outcomes in children with HCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Srinivasan
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- The Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (IBACS), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Nidhi Amonkar
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- The Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (IBACS), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Patrick Kumavor
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Kristin Morgan
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Deborah Bubela
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
- The Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (IBACS), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
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Logan SW, Sloane BM, Kenyon LK, Feldner HA. Powered Mobility Device Use and Developmental Change of Young Children with Cerebral Palsy. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13050399. [PMID: 37232636 DOI: 10.3390/bs13050399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mobility is a fundamental human right and is supported by the United Nations and the ON Time Mobility framework. The purpose of this study was to understand the effect of a powered mobility intervention on developmental changes of children with cerebral palsy (CP). This study was a randomized, crossover clinical trial involving 24 children (12-36 months) diagnosed with CP or with high probability of future CP diagnosis based on birth history and current developmental status. Children received the Explorer Mini and a modified ride-on car in randomized order, each for 8 weeks. The Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-4th Edition was administered at baseline, mid-study, and end-of-study. Raw change scores were used for analysis. Total minutes of use per device was categorized as low or high use for analysis based on caregiver-reported driving diaries. Explorer Mini: The high use group exhibited significantly greater positive change scores compared to the low use group on receptive communication, expressive communication, and gross motor subscales (p < 0.05). Modified ride-on car: No significant differences between low and high use groups. Regardless of device, low use was associated with no significant developmental change and high use was associated with positive developmental changes. Mobility access is critical to maximize the development of children with CP and may be augmented by using powered mobility devices. Results may have implications for the development of evidence-based guidelines on dosage for powered mobility use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Logan
- College of Health, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Bethany M Sloane
- College of Health, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Lisa K Kenyon
- Department of Physical Therapy, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA
| | - Heather A Feldner
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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