Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026
05:12
Using Virtual Reality to Transfer Motor Skill Knowledge from One Hand to Another
Published on: September 18, 2017
Applying motor-control theory to physical therapy practice: a case report
Lisa K Kenyon1, Mary T Blackinton
1Lisa K. Kenyon, PT, PhD, PCS: Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Program, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA.
Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada
|June 2, 2012
Summary
This case report applies motor control theory to help a child with cerebral palsy safely climb playground slides. The approach improved climbing ability, though attention challenges persisted in busy environments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Motor Control Theory
- Systems-Based Approach
Background:
- A 5-year-old boy with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy presented with safety concerns regarding playground activities.
- Parental concerns focused on the child's ability to navigate playground equipment, specifically climbing a slide ladder.
Observation:
- The patient's functional goals included safe and effective climbing of a playground slide ladder.
- A systems-based motor control theory guided the physical therapy intervention.
- Intervention considered individual, task, and environmental factors.
Findings:
- The child successfully ascended the slide ladder using a modified movement pattern upon entering kindergarten.
- Performance improved when environmental distractions were minimized.
- Attentional deficits continued to impact task execution in the presence of other children.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the integration of motor control theory into clinical physical therapy practice.
- The application of theory facilitated the development of clinical questions for future research.
- Evidence-based practice in pediatric cerebral palsy management can be enhanced through theoretical application.
