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Devine TM, Alter KE, Damiano DL, Bulea TC. A randomized cross-over study protocol to evaluate long-term gait training with a pediatric robotic exoskeleton outside the clinical setting in children with movement disorders. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304087. [PMID: 38976710 PMCID: PMC11230531 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals with neuromuscular disorders display a combination of motor control deficits and lower limb weakness contributing to knee extension deficiency characterized by exaggerated stance phase knee flexion. There is a lack of evidence for long-term improvement of knee extension deficiency with currently available clinical treatment programs. Our previous work testing a wearable robotic exoskeleton with precisely timed assistive torque applied at the knee showed immediate increases in knee extension during walking for children with cerebral palsy, which continued to improve over an acute practice period. When we applied interleaved assistance and resistance to knee extension, we observed improvements in knee extension and increased muscle activation indicating the potential for muscle strengthening when used over time. There is a need for additional, high-quality trials to assess the impact of dosage, intensity and volume of training necessary to see persistent improvement in lower limb function for these patient populations. This randomized crossover study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05726591) was designed to determine whether 12 weeks of overground gait training with a robotic exoskeleton outside of the clinical setting, following an initial in clinic accommodation period, has a beneficial effect on walking ability, muscle activity and overall motor function. Participants will be randomized to either complete the exoskeleton intervention or continue their standard therapy for 12 weeks first, followed by a crossover to the other study component. The primary outcome measure is change in peak knee extension angle during walking; secondary outcome measures include gait speed, strength, and validated clinical scales of motor function and mobility. Assessments will be completed before and after the intervention and at 6 weeks post-intervention, and safety and compliance will be monitored throughout. We hypothesize that the 12-week exoskeleton intervention outside the clinical setting will show greater improvements in study outcome measures than the standard therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M. Devine
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katharine E. Alter
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Diane L. Damiano
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Thomas C. Bulea
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Gannotti ME, O’Neil ME, Fragala-Pinkham M, Gorton GE, Whitney DG. Policy brief: adaptive cycling equipment for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities as durable medical equipment. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 4:1160948. [PMID: 37342677 PMCID: PMC10277568 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1160948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
- Durable medical equipment (DME) policies require that the equipment be medically necessary; however, adaptive cycling equipment (bicycles and tricycles) are usually not deemed medically necessary. - Individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) are at high risk for secondary conditions, both physical and mental, that can be mitigated by increasing physical activity. - Significant financial costs are associated with the management of secondary conditions. - Adaptive cycling can provide improved physical health of individuals with NDD potentially reducing costs of comorbidities. - Expanding DME policies to include adaptive cycling equipment for qualifying individuals with NDD can increase access to equipment. - Regulations to ensure eligibility, proper fitting, prescription, and training can optimize health and wellbeing. - Programs for recycling or repurposing of equipment are warranted to optimize resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E. Gannotti
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT, United States
| | - Margaret E. O’Neil
- Department of Physical Therapy & Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Maria Fragala-Pinkham
- Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - George E. Gorton
- Department of Research, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Springfield, MA, United States
| | - Daniel G. Whitney
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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3
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Türker D, Yakut Y, Yaşar E, Kerem Günel M, Yılmaz B, Tan AK. The effects of functional electrical stimulation cycling on gait parameters in diplegic cerebral palsy: a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Somatosens Mot Res 2023; 40:62-71. [PMID: 36645809 DOI: 10.1080/08990220.2022.2157393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effects of functional electrical stimulation cycling (FES-C) training in addition to conventional physical therapy on gait, muscle strength, gross motor function, and energy expenditure in ambulatory children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty children with diplegic cerebral palsy were randomly assigned to FES-C group (n = 10) or control group (n = 10). Subjects trained 3 days/week for 8 weeks. Control group received conventional physical therapy. The FES-C group additionally received FES-C training. The functional muscle test was used for muscle strength assessment. Vicon-3D system was used for gait analysis. Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88) was used for motor function assessment and calorimeter was used for energy expenditure. Measurements were performed at the baseline, at the eight week and at the sixteenth week. RESULTS Functional muscle strength, gross motor function, and energy expenditure improved more in the FES-C group after training and follow up (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference found between the changes in gait parameters of the two groups after treatment and follow up (p > 0.05). Pelvic tilt while walking decreased after training in the FES-C group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS FES-C applied in addition to conventional physical therapy in children with diplegic cerebral palsy is more effective than conventional physical therapy for increasing functional muscle strength, improving gross motor function functions, and reducing energy expenditure.HighlightsFES-C improves lower extremity functional muscle strength, gross motor function, and energy expenditure in ambulatory children with spastic dCP.The use of FES-C in combination with conventional physiotherapy methods may be beneficial in outpatients with spastic dCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Türker
- Faculty of Gülhane Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Yakut
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Hasan Kalyoncu University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Evren Yaşar
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Ankara City Hospital, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mintaze Kerem Günel
- Faculty of Physical Therapy Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bilge Yılmaz
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Ankara City Hospital, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gaziler Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gaziler Training and Research Hospital
| | - Arif Kenan Tan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Ankara City Hospital, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gaziler Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gaziler Training and Research Hospital
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4
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Hilderley AJ, Wright FV, Taylor MJ, Chen JL, Fehlings D. Functional Neuroplasticity and Motor Skill Change Following Gross Motor Interventions for Children With Diplegic Cerebral Palsy. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2023; 37:16-26. [PMID: 36524254 PMCID: PMC9896542 DOI: 10.1177/15459683221143503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gross motor intervention designs for children with diplegic cerebral palsy (DCP) require an improved understanding of the children's potential for neuroplasticity. OBJECTIVE To identify relations between functional neuroplasticity and motor skill changes following gross motor interventions for children with DCP. METHODS There were 17 participants with DCP (ages 8-16 years; 6 females; Gross Motor Function Classification System Level I [n = 9] and II [n = 8]). Each completed a 6-week gross motor intervention program that was directed toward achievement of individualized motor/physical activity goals. Outcomes were assessed pre/post and 4 to 6 months post-intervention (follow-up). An active ankle dorsiflexion task was completed during functional magnetic resonance imaging. The ratio of motor cortical activation volume in each hemisphere was calculated using a laterality index. The Challenge was the primary gross motor skill measure. Change over time and relations among outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS Challenge scores improved post-intervention (4.57% points [SD 4.45], P = .004) and were maintained at follow-up (0.75% [SD 6.57], P = 1.000). The laterality index for dominant ankle dorsiflexion increased (P = .033), while non-dominant change was variable (P = .534). Contralateral activation (laterality index ≥+0.75) was most common for both ankles. Challenge improvements correlated with increased ipsilateral activity (negative laterality index) during non-dominant dorsiflexion (r = -.56, P = .045). Smaller activation volume during non-dominant dorsiflexion predicted continued gross motor gains at follow-up (R2 = .30, P = .040). CONCLUSIONS Motor cortical activation during non-dominant ankle dorsiflexion is a modest indicator of the potential for gross motor skill change. Further investigation of patterns of neuroplastic change will improve our understanding of effects. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV REGISTRY NCT02584491 and NCT02754128.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia J. Hilderley
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland
Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - F. Virginia Wright
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland
Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Physical Therapy,
University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Margot J. Taylor
- Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for
Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Medical Imaging,
University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychology, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joyce L. Chen
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical
Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program,
Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto,
ON, Canada
| | - Darcy Fehlings
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland
Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of
Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Darcy Fehlings, Holland Bloorview Kids
Rehabilitation Hospital, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON M4G 1R8, Canada.
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5
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Ma T, Zhang Q, Zhou T, Zhang Y, He Y, Li S, Liu Q. Effects of robotic-assisted gait training on motor function and walking ability in children with thoracolumbar incomplete spinal cord injury. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 51:499-508. [DOI: 10.3233/nre-220124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in neurological dysfunction of the spinal cord below the injury. OBJECTIVE: To explore the immediate and long-term effects of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) on the recovery of motor function and walking ability in children with thoracolumbar incomplete SCI. METHODS: Twenty-one children with thoracolumbar incomplete SCI were randomly divided into the experimental (n = 11) and control groups (n = 10). The control group received 60 min of conventional physical therapy, and the experimental group received 30 min of RAGT based on 30 minutes of conventional physical therapy. Changes in walking speed and distance, physiological cost index (PCI), lower extremity motor score (LEMS), SCI walking index and centre-of-pressure (COP) envelope area score were observed in both groups of children before and after eight weeks of training. The primary outcome measures were the 10-metre walk test (10MWT) and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) at preferred and maximal speeds. In addition, several other measures were assessed, such as postural control and balance, lower limb strength and energy expenditure. RESULTS: Compared with control group, the self-selected walk speed (SWS), maximum walking speed (MWS), 6MWD, PCI, LEMS, COP, and Walking Index for Spinal Cord injury II (WISCI II) of experimental group were improved after treatment. The 6MWD, PCI, COP, and WISCI II after eight weeks of treatment were improved in experimental group. All indicators were not identical at three different time points when compared between two groups. Pairwise comparisons in experimental group suggested that the SWS, MWS, 6MWD, PCI, LEMS, COP, and WISCI II after treatment were higher than those before treatment. The 6MWD, LEMS, COP, and WISCI II after treatment were higher than at the one-month follow-up appointment. The SWS, PCI, LEMS, COP, and WISCI II at the eight-week follow-up appointment were improved. CONCLUSION: Robotic-assisted gait training may significantly improve the immediate motor function and walking ability of children with thoracolumbar incomplete SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Ma
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tiantian Zhou
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqing Zhang
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yan He
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sijia Li
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qianjin Liu
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing, China
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6
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Damiano DL, Pekar JJ, Mori S, Faria AV, Ye X, Stashinko E, Stanley CJ, Alter KE, Hoon AH, Chin EM. Functional and Structural Brain Connectivity in Children With Bilateral Cerebral Palsy Compared to Age-Related Controls and in Response to Intensive Rapid-Reciprocal Leg Training. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 3:811509. [PMID: 36189020 PMCID: PMC9397804 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.811509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Compared to unilateral cerebral palsy (CP), less is known about brain reorganization and plasticity in bilateral CP especially in relation or response to motor training. The few trials that reported brain imaging results alongside functional outcomes include a handful of studies in unilateral CP, and one pilot trial of three children with bilateral CP. This study is the first locomotor training randomized controlled trial (RCT) in bilateral CP to our knowledge reporting brain imaging outcomes. Methods Objective was to compare MRI brain volumes, resting state connectivity and white matter integrity using DTI in children with bilateral CP with PVL and preterm birth history (<34 weeks), to age-related controls, and from an RCT of intensive 12 week rapid-reciprocal locomotor training using an elliptical or motor-assisted cycle. We hypothesized that connectivity in CP compared to controls would be greater across sensorimotor-related brain regions and that functional (resting state) and structural (fractional anisotropy) connectivity would improve post intervention. We further anticipated that baseline and post-intervention imaging and functional measures would correlate. Results Images were acquired with a 3T MRI scanner for 16/27 children with CP in the trial, and 18 controls. No conclusive evidence of training-induced neuroplastic effects were seen. However, analysis of shared variance revealed that greater increases in precentral gyrus connectivity with the thalamus and pons may be associated with larger improvements in the trained device speed. Exploratory analyses also revealed interesting potential relationships between brain integrity and multiple functional outcomes in CP, with functional connectivity between the motor cortex and midbrain showing the strongest potential relationship with mobility. Decreased posterior white matter, corpus callosum and thalamic volumes, and FA in the posterior thalamic radiation were the most prominent group differences with corticospinal tract differences notably not found. Conclusions Results reinforce the involvement of sensory-related brain areas in bilateral CP. Given the wide individual variability in imaging results and clinical responses to training, a greater focus on neural and other mechanisms related to better or worse outcomes is recommended to enhance rehabilitation results on a patient vs. group level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane L. Damiano
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - James J. Pekar
- FM Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Susumu Mori
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andreia Vasconcellos Faria
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - X. Ye
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Elaine Stashinko
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Alec H. Hoon
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Eric M. Chin
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
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7
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Electromechanical and Robotic Devices for Gait and Balance Rehabilitation of Children with Neurological Disability: A Systematic Review. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app112412061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the last two decades, a growing interest has been focused on gait and balance robot-assisted rehabilitation in children with neurological disabilities. Robotic devices allow the implementation of intensive, task-specific training fostering functional recovery and neuroplasticity phenomena. However, limited attention has been paid to the protocols used in this research framework. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the existing literature on robotic systems for the rehabilitation of gait and balance in children with neurological disabilities and their rehabilitation applications. The literature search was carried out independently and synchronously by three authors on the following databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, PeDro, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The data collected included three subsections referring to clinical, technical, and regulatory aspects. Thirty-one articles out of 81 found on the primary literature search were included in the systematic review. Most studies involved children with cerebral palsy. Only one-third of the studies were randomized controlled trials. Overall, 17 devices (nine end-effector systems and eight exoskeletons) were investigated, among which only 4 (24%) were bore the CE mark. Studies differ on rehabilitation protocols duration, intensity, and outcome measures. Future research should improve both rehabilitation protocols’ and devices’ descriptions.
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8
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Gonzalez A, Garcia L, Kilby J, McNair P. Robotic devices for paediatric rehabilitation: a review of design features. Biomed Eng Online 2021; 20:89. [PMID: 34488777 PMCID: PMC8420060 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-021-00920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with physical disabilities often have limited performance in daily activities, hindering their physical development, social development and mental health. Therefore, rehabilitation is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of the different causes of physical disabilities and improve independence and quality of life. In the last decade, robotic rehabilitation has shown the potential to augment traditional physical rehabilitation. However, to date, most robotic rehabilitation devices are designed for adult patients who differ in their needs compared to paediatric patients, limiting the devices' potential because the paediatric patients' needs are not adequately considered. With this in mind, the current work reviews the existing literature on robotic rehabilitation for children with physical disabilities, intending to summarise how the rehabilitation robots could fulfil children's needs and inspire researchers to develop new devices. A literature search was conducted utilising the Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases. Based on the inclusion-exclusion criteria, 206 publications were included, and 58 robotic devices used by children with a physical disability were identified. Different design factors and the treated conditions using robotic technology were compared. Through the analyses, it was identified that weight, safety, operability and motivation were crucial factors to the successful design of devices for children. The majority of the current devices were used for lower limb rehabilitation. Neurological disorders, in particular cerebral palsy, were the most common conditions for which devices were designed. By far, the most common actuator was the electric motor. Usually, the devices present more than one training strategy being the assistive strategy the most used. The admittance/impedance method is the most popular to interface the robot with the children. Currently, there is a trend on developing exoskeletons, as they can assist children with daily life activities outside of the rehabilitation setting, propitiating a wider adoption of the technology. With this shift in focus, it appears likely that new technologies to actuate the system (e.g. serial elastic actuators) and to detect the intention (e.g. physiological signals) of children as they go about their daily activities will be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Gonzalez
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lorenzo Garcia
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Jeff Kilby
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter McNair
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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9
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Apolo-Arenas MD, Jerônimo AFDA, Caña-Pino A, Fernandes O, Alegrete J, Parraca JA. Standardized Outcomes Measures in Physical Therapy Practice for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Cerebral PALSY: A Systematic Review. J Pers Med 2021; 11:604. [PMID: 34206816 PMCID: PMC8303849 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) treatment includes physical therapy and various complementary therapies to the standard clinical treatment. However, there are not many reviews that focus on the methods used and evaluation procedures. This study aims to analyze which tools are most suitable for the evaluation and methodology of patients with CP treated with physical therapy. Following the PRISMA statement, through a PICOS strategy, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Science Direct, and Scielo were searched with the following terms: cerebral palsy AND (physical therapy modalities OR therapeutics) AND outcome assessment. The methodological quality of the RCTs was assessed with the Evidence Project risk of bias tool. Thirty-seven RCTs and six RCT protocols, comprising 1359 participants with different types of CP: spastic hemiplegia/paresis, spastic diplegia/paresis, and spastic CP, met the inclusion criteria, uncovering 21 variables measured through 77 different instruments and several interventions. The therapies most widely used in CP are gaming or technology-assisted therapies, aerobic training, hippotherapy, music therapy, gait training, and aquatic exercises. This study provides an overview of what the authors used in the neurorehabilitation field through procedure evaluation and checking the technological advance that began to be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dolores Apolo-Arenas
- Departamento Terapéutica Médico Quirúrgica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (M.D.A.-A.); (A.C.-P.)
| | - Aline Ferreira de Araújo Jerônimo
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal; (A.F.d.A.J.); (O.F.); (J.A.)
| | - Alejandro Caña-Pino
- Departamento Terapéutica Médico Quirúrgica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (M.D.A.-A.); (A.C.-P.)
| | - Orlando Fernandes
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal; (A.F.d.A.J.); (O.F.); (J.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
| | - Joana Alegrete
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal; (A.F.d.A.J.); (O.F.); (J.A.)
| | - Jose Alberto Parraca
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal; (A.F.d.A.J.); (O.F.); (J.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
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10
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Fahr A, Keller JW, van Hedel HJA. A Systematic Review of Training Methods That May Improve Selective Voluntary Motor Control in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy. Front Neurol 2020; 11:572038. [PMID: 33343485 PMCID: PMC7746811 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.572038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Impaired selective voluntary motor control is defined as “the reduced ability to isolate the activation of muscles in response to demands of a voluntary posture or movement.” It is a negative motor sign of an upper motor neuron lesion. Objective: This paper reviews interventions that may improve selective motor control in children and youths with spastic cerebral palsy. The aim was to systematically evaluate the methodological quality and formulate the level of evidence from controlled studies. Methods: Six databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and CINAHL) were searched with predefined search terms for population, interventions, and outcomes. Two reviewers independently completed study selection and ratings of methodological quality and risk of bias. Evidence was summarized in a best evidence synthesis. Results: Twenty-three studies from initially 2,634 papers were included. The interventions showed a wide variety of approaches, such as constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), electrical stimulation, robot-assisted therapy, and functional training. The evidence synthesis revealed conflicting evidence for CIMT, robot-assisted rehabilitation and mirror therapy for the upper extremities in children with cerebral palsy. Conclusions: Final recommendations are difficult due to heterogeneity of the reviewed studies. Studies that include both an intervention and an outcome that specifically focus on selective voluntary motor control are needed to determine the most effective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annina Fahr
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jeffrey W Keller
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Doctoral Program Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hubertus J A van Hedel
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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11
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Chiu HC, Ada L, Bania TA. Mechanically assisted walking training for walking, participation, and quality of life in children with cerebral palsy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 11:CD013114. [PMID: 33202482 PMCID: PMC8092676 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013114.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood. Mechanically assisted walking training can be provided with or without body weight support to enable children with cerebral palsy to perform repetitive practice of complex gait cycles. It is important to examine the effects of mechanically assisted walking training to identify evidence-based treatments to improve walking performance. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of mechanically assisted walking training compared to control for walking, participation, and quality of life in children with cerebral palsy 3 to 18 years of age. SEARCH METHODS In January 2020, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, six other databases, and two trials registers. We handsearched conference abstracts and checked reference lists of included studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs, including cross-over trials, comparing any type of mechanically assisted walking training (with or without body weight support) with no walking training or the same dose of overground walking training in children with cerebral palsy (classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] Levels I to IV) 3 to 18 years of age. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. MAIN RESULTS This review includes 17 studies with 451 participants (GMFCS Levels I to IV; mean age range 4 to 14 years) from outpatient settings. The duration of the intervention period (4 to 12 weeks) ranged widely, as did intensity of training in terms of both length (15 minutes to 40 minutes) and frequency (two to five times a week) of sessions. Six studies were funded by grants, three had no funding support, and eight did not report information on funding. Due to the nature of the intervention, all studies were at high risk of performance bias. Mechanically assisted walking training without body weight support versus no walking training Four studies (100 participants) assessed this comparison. Compared to no walking, mechanically assisted walking training without body weight support increased walking speed (mean difference [MD] 0.05 meter per second [m/s] [change scores], 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03 to 0.07; 1 study, 10 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as measured by the Biodex Gait Trainer 2™ (Biodex, Shirley, NY, USA) and improved gross motor function (standardized MD [SMD] 1.30 [postintervention scores], 95% CI 0.49 to 2.11; 2 studies, 60 participants; low-quality evidence) postintervention. One study (30 participants) reported no adverse events (low-quality evidence). No study measured participation or quality of life. Mechanically assisted walking training without body weight support versus the same dose of overground walking training Two studies (55 participants) assessed this comparison. Compared to the same dose of overground walking, mechanically assisted walking training without body weight support increased walking speed (MD 0.25 m/s [change or postintervention scores], 95% CI 0.13 to 0.37; 2 studies, 55 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as assessed by the 6-minute walk test or Vicon gait analysis. It also improved gross motor function (MD 11.90% [change scores], 95% CI 2.98 to 20.82; 1 study, 35 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as assessed by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) and participation (MD 8.20 [change scores], 95% CI 5.69 to 10.71; 1 study, 35 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as assessed by the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (scored from 0 to 59), compared to the same dose of overground walking training. No study measured adverse events or quality of life. Mechanically assisted walking training with body weight support versus no walking training Eight studies (210 participants) assessed this comparison. Compared to no walking training, mechanically assisted walking training with body weight support increased walking speed (MD 0.07 m/s [change and postintervention scores], 95% CI 0.06 to 0.08; 7 studies, 161 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as assessed by the 10-meter or 8-meter walk test. There were no differences between groups in gross motor function (MD 1.09% [change and postintervention scores], 95% CI -0.57 to 2.75; 3 studies, 58 participants; low-quality evidence) as assessed by the GMFM; participation (SMD 0.33 [change scores], 95% CI -0.27 to 0.93; 2 studies, 44 participants; low-quality evidence); and quality of life (MD 9.50% [change scores], 95% CI -4.03 to 23.03; 1 study, 26 participants; low-quality evidence) as assessed by the Pediatric Quality of Life Cerebral Palsy Module (scored 0 [bad] to 100 [good]). Three studies (56 participants) reported no adverse events (low-quality evidence). Mechanically assisted walking training with body weight support versus the same dose of overground walking training Three studies (86 participants) assessed this comparison. There were no differences between groups in walking speed (MD -0.02 m/s [change and postintervention scores], 95% CI -0.08 to 0.04; 3 studies, 78 participants; low-quality evidence) as assessed by the 10-meter or 5-minute walk test; gross motor function (MD -0.73% [postintervention scores], 95% CI -14.38 to 12.92; 2 studies, 52 participants; low-quality evidence) as assessed by the GMFM; and participation (MD -4.74 [change scores], 95% CI -11.89 to 2.41; 1 study, 26 participants; moderate-quality evidence) as assessed by the School Function Assessment (scored from 19 to 76). No study measured adverse events or quality of life. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Compared with no walking, mechanically assisted walking training probably results in small increases in walking speed (with or without body weight support) and may improve gross motor function (with body weight support). Compared with the same dose of overground walking, mechanically assisted walking training with body weight support may result in little to no difference in walking speed and gross motor function, although two studies found that mechanically assisted walking training without body weight support is probably more effective than the same dose of overground walking training for walking speed and gross motor function. Not many studies reported adverse events, although those that did appeared to show no differences between groups. The results are largely not clinically significant, sample sizes are small, and risk of bias and intensity of intervention vary across studies, making it hard to draw robust conclusions. Mechanically assisted walking training is a means to undertake high-intensity, repetitive, task-specific training and may be useful for children with poor concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Ching Chiu
- Department of Physical Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Louise Ada
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, The University of Sydney, Lidcombe, Australia
| | - Theofani A Bania
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Science, University of Patras, Myrtia, Greece
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Sukal-Moulton T, de Campos AC, Alter KE, Damiano DL. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy to assess sensorimotor cortical activity during hand squeezing and ankle dorsiflexion in individuals with and without bilateral and unilateral cerebral palsy. NEUROPHOTONICS 2020; 7:045001. [PMID: 33062800 PMCID: PMC7536541 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.7.4.045001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Our study is the first comparison of brain activation patterns during motor tasks across unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP), bilateral cerebral palsy (BCP), and typical development (TD) to elucidate neural mechanisms and inform rehabilitation strategies. Aim: Cortical activation patterns were compared for distal upper and lower extremity tasks in UCP, BCP, and TD using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and related to functional severity. Approach: Individuals with UCP ( n = 10 , 18.8 ± 6.8 years ), BCP ( n = 14 , 17.5 ± 9.6 years ), and TD ( n = 16 , 17.3 ± 9.1 years ) participated in this cross-sectional cohort study. The fNIRS was used to noninvasively monitor the hemodynamic response to task-related cortical activation. The block design involved repetitive nondominant hand squeezing and ankle dorsiflexion. Results: Individuals with UCP demonstrated the highest levels of activation for the squeeze task ( UCP > BCP q = 0.049 ; BCP > TD q < 0.001 ; and UCP > TD q = 0.001 ) and more activity in the ipsilateral versus contralateral hemisphere. Individuals with BCP showed the highest levels of cortical activation in the dorsiflexion task ( BCP > UCP q < 0.001 ; BCP > TD ). Conclusions: Grouping by CP subtype and manual function or mobility level demonstrated significant differences from TD, even for individuals with the mildest forms of CP. Hemispheric activation patterns showed hypothesized but nonsignificant trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Sukal-Moulton
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Ana C. de Campos
- Federal University of São Carlos, Department of Physical Therapy, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Katharine E. Alter
- National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Functional and Applied Biomechanics Section, Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Diane L. Damiano
- National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Functional and Applied Biomechanics Section, Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
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Armstrong EL, Boyd RN, Kentish MJ, Carty CP, Horan SA. Effects of a training programme of functional electrical stimulation (FES) powered cycling, recreational cycling and goal-directed exercise training on children with cerebral palsy: a randomised controlled trial protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024881. [PMID: 31213443 PMCID: PMC6589006 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children with cerebral palsy (CP) experience declines in gross motor ability as they transition from childhood to adolescence, which can result in the loss of ability to perform sit-to-stand transfers, ambulate or participate in leisure activities such as cycling. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling is a novel technology that may provide opportunities for children with CP to strengthen their lower limbs, improve functional independence and increase physical activity participation. The proposed randomised controlled trial will test the efficacy of a training package of FES cycling, adapted cycling and goal-directed functional training to usual care in children with CP who are susceptible to functional declines. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Forty children with CP (20 per group), aged 6-8 years and classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels II-IV will be recruited across South East Queensland. Participants will be randomised to either an immediate intervention group, who will undertake 8 weeks of training, or a waitlist control group. The training group will attend two 1 hour sessions per week with a physiotherapist, consisting of FES cycling and goal-directed, functional exercises and a 1 hour home exercise programme per week, consisting of recreational cycling. Primary outcomes will be the gross motor function measure and Canadian occupational performance measure, and secondary outcomes will include the five times sit-to-stand test, habitual physical activity (accelerometry), power output during cycling and Participation and Environment Measure-Children and Youth. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, postintervention (8 weeks) and 8 weeks following the intervention (retention). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from Griffith University (2018/037) and the Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service (CHQHHS) Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/17/QRCH/88). Site-specific approval was obtained from CHQHHS research governance (SSA/17/QRCH/145). Results from this trial will be disseminated via publication in relevant peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12617000644369p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Armstrong
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Roslyn N Boyd
- Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Megan J Kentish
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher P Carty
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Gold Coast Orthopaedic Research Engineering and Education Alliance, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sean A Horan
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Armstrong EL, Spencer S, Kentish MJ, Horan SA, Carty CP, Boyd RN. Efficacy of cycling interventions to improve function in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil 2019; 33:1113-1129. [DOI: 10.1177/0269215519837582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Armstrong
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland and School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Sian Spencer
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Megan J Kentish
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Sean A Horan
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland and School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Christopher P Carty
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland and School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Roslyn N Boyd
- Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Relationship between sensorimotor cortical activation as assessed by functional near infrared spectroscopy and lower extremity motor coordination in bilateral cerebral palsy. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2018; 20:275-285. [PMID: 30101059 PMCID: PMC6083901 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2018.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background Evaluation of task-evoked cortical responses during movement has been limited in individuals with bilateral cerebral palsy (CP), despite documented alterations in brain structure/function and deficits in motor control. Objective To systematically evaluate cortical activity associated with lower extremity tasks, and relate activation parameters to clinical measures in CP. Methods 28 ambulatory participants (14 with bilateral CP and 14 with typical development) completed five motor tasks (non-dominant ankle dorsiflexion, hip flexion and leg cycling as well as bilateral dorsiflexion and cycling) in a block design while their sensorimotor cortex was monitored using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), in addition to laboratory and clinical measures of performance. Results Main effects for group and task were found for extent of fNIRS activation (number of active channels; p < 0.001 and p = 0.010, respectively), magnitude of activation (sum of beta values; p < 0.001 for both), and number of active muscles (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), but no group by task interactions. Collectively, subgroups with CP and especially those with greater impairments, showed higher extent and magnitude of cortical sensorimotor activation as well as higher amounts of concurrent activity in muscles not required for task performance. Magnitude of fNIRS activation during non-dominant dorsiflexion correlated with validated measures of selective control (r = −0.60, p = 0.03), as well as mobility and daily activity (r = −0.55, p = 0.04 and r = −0.52, p = 0.05, respectively) and self-reported gait function (r = −0.68, p = 0.01) in those with CP. Conclusions The association between higher activity in the sensorimotor cortex and decreased selectivity in cortical organization suggests a potential neural mechanism of motor deficits and target for intervention. First fNIRS comparison of a range of lower extremity tasks in children with and without bilateral CP. FNIRS showed a greater amount and extent of activation of sensorimotor cortices in CP. Greater activation correlated with a greater number of muscles involved in the task. fNIRS results correlated to clinical measures of motor control and function.
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