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Evaluation of a device to exercise hip extensor muscles in children with cerebral palsy: a clinical and field study
D S Bloswick1, E M King, D Brown
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA.
Insights
This study found that a hip extensor tricycle improved gait patterns and self-esteem in children with cerebral palsy. While strength results were inconclusive, the device was well-used and enjoyed by participants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) affects motor control, impacting gait and muscle strength.
- Targeted muscle group exercise is crucial for functional improvement in children with CP.
- Existing interventions may not sufficiently isolate and strengthen hip extensor muscles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel hip extensor tricycle for children with cerebral palsy.
- To assess improvements in hip extensor strength and gait patterns.
- To gather subjective feedback on physical and psychological benefits.
Main Methods:
- An 8-week home-use study involving five children with cerebral palsy using a hip extensor tricycle.
- Regular assessments of hip extensor strength and gait patterns every two weeks.
- Inclusion of usage data and parent-reported subjective improvements.
Main Results:
- Expert evaluation indicated gait pattern improvement in four out of five subjects.
- Hip extensor strength testing yielded inconclusive results.
- Subjects consistently used the tricycle and reported positive experiences.
- Parent evaluations noted improvements in physical condition, coordination, self-esteem, and sense of accomplishment.
Conclusions:
- The hip extensor tricycle shows promise for improving gait and psychological well-being in children with CP.
- Further research with longer durations and refined measurement tools is recommended.
- Focusing on gait and physical condition evaluation is essential for future studies.
Abstract:
This research includes the effectiveness of a tricycle (hip extensor tricycle) designed to isolate and exercise the hip extensor muscles in children with cerebral palsy. Five children diagnosed with cerebral palsy were given hip extensor tricycles for home use during an 8-week test period. The hip extensor strength and gait pattern of the subjects were recorded at 2-week intervals. Additional recorded information included the time and duration of subject use and a parent evaluation that noted subjective physical and psychological improvements. A panel of experts judged that the gait patterns of four subjects improved during the course of the study. There was an assignable cause for the lack of improvement in the fifth subject. The results of the strength testing were found to be inconclusive. The subjects used the device on a regular basis and enjoyed doing so. Parent evaluations indicated that the use of the hip extensor tricycle improved the subjects' physical condition, coordination, sense of accomplishment, and self esteem. It is recommended that future research implement a longer test period along with improved hip extensor strength measurement methods and focus on improvements in evaluation of gait and physical condition.