Effect of a new physiotherapy concept on bone mineral density, muscle force and gross motor function in children with...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric physiotherapy
• Neuromuscular rehabilitation
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• Bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP) presents significant challenges in bone density, muscle strength, and motor function.
• Optimizing physical function in children with BSCP requires innovative and comprehensive therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a novel physiotherapy concept on bone density, muscle force, and motor function in children with BSCP.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 78 children with BSCP undergoing a 6-month physiotherapy concept.
• The concept integrated whole body vibration, resistance training, treadmill training, and home-based vibration.
• Outcome measures included dual-energy x-ray absorption (DXA), Leonardo Tilt Table, and modified Gross Motor Function Measure.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in bone mineral density, bone mineral content, and muscle mass.
• The training program led to significant gains in muscle force and modified Gross Motor Function Measure scores.
• Improvements in the angle of verticalisation were also noted.

Conclusions:

• The new physiotherapy concept demonstrated significant positive effects on bone density, muscle force, and gross motor function in children with BSCP.
• These findings suggest a potential amelioration across International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains.
• The study provides a foundation for future research in evidence-based pediatric physiotherapy for children with cerebral palsy.