Randomized controlled study of home-based treadmill training for ambulatory children with spina bifida

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Neurology
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Ambulatory children with spina bifida (SB) often experience a decline in walking ability.
• This decline can occur despite stable or improved motor function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a home-based treadmill training program on ambulatory function and aerobic fitness in children with SB.
• To assess both short-term and long-term effects of the intervention.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial involving 34 ambulatory children with SB.
• Intervention group: 12 weeks of supervised, twice-weekly home treadmill training at 66% of peak heart rate (HR(peak)), with progressive speed increases.
• Control group: Usual care. Outcome measures included the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), gross energy consumption (ECS(gross)), and maximal exercise capacity (VO(2peak), speed(peak)).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in the training group for 6MWT, peak speed, VO(2peak), and ECS(gross) post-intervention.
• Long-term benefits were noted for 6MWT, peak speed, and ECS(gross) up to 3 months post-intervention.
• VO(2peak) showed a moderate short-term effect but no significant long-term effect.

Conclusions:

• Home-based, progressive treadmill training is effective for improving ambulation in ambulatory children with spina bifida.
• The program demonstrates substantial long-term benefits for walking ability and energy efficiency.
• A moderate short-term improvement in aerobic capacity (VO(2peak)) was also observed.