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Published on: August 9, 2024
Muscle strength training to improve gait function in children with cerebral palsy
Meta Nyström Eek1, Roy Tranberg, Roland Zügner
1Department of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, University of Gothenburg, Sweden. meta.nystrom-eek@vgregion.se
Insights
Muscle strength training improved gait function in children with cerebral palsy. Eight weeks of exercise enhanced muscle strength and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) scores, leading to better walking patterns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) often involves muscle weakness and impaired gait.
- Muscle strength deficits are common in children with CP, particularly in lower extremities.
- Targeted interventions are needed to improve motor function in pediatric CP populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a structured muscle strength training program on gait parameters in children with spastic diplegia.
- To assess changes in muscle strength, functional mobility, and biomechanical gait characteristics following an 8-week intervention.
Main Methods:
- Participants: 16 children (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-II) with spastic diplegia.
- Intervention: 8 weeks of lower extremity muscle strength training (3x/week) using resistance exercises.
- Assessments: Pre- and post-training measurements of muscle strength, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), 3D gait analysis, range of motion, and spasticity.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in muscle strength and GMFM scores were observed post-training.
- Gait analysis revealed increased stride length and reduced cadence, with unchanged velocity.
- Improvements noted in hip extensor moment and push-off power generation.
Conclusions:
- Eight weeks of targeted muscle strength training is effective in enhancing muscle strength in children with CP.
- This intervention leads to measurable improvements in gait function and functional mobility.
- Strength training represents a viable therapeutic strategy for improving motor outcomes in pediatric cerebral palsy.
Abstract:
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of muscle strength training on gait outcomes in children with cerebral palsy. Sixteen children (two females, 14 males, Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-II, mean age 12y 6mo, range 9y 4mo-15y 4mo) underwent muscle strength measurement using a handheld device, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) assessment, three-dimensional gait analysis, joint range of motion assessment, and grading of spasticity before and after 8 weeks of training. All participants had a diagnosis of spastic diplegia and could walk without aids. Training consisted of exercises for lower extremity muscles with free weights, rubber bands, and body weight for resistance, three times a week. Values for muscle strength below normal were identified in all children; this was most pronounced at the ankle, followed by the hip muscles. After training, muscle strength and GMFM scores increased, velocity was unchanged, stride length increased, and cadence was reduced. There was an increase in hip extensor moment and power generated at push off. Eight weeks of muscle strength training can increase muscle strength and improve gait function.
