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Constraint-induced movement therapy effects on gross motor function of a child with triplegic cerebral palsy
1Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, Mayo Clinic Health System-Mankato, Mankato, Minnesota 56002, USA. schrank.jennifer@mayo.edu
Insights
Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) significantly improved gross motor function in a child with cerebral palsy. The 3-week intervention enhanced weight-bearing and weight-shifting abilities, showcasing CIMT
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Neurorehabilitation
- Cerebral Palsy Research
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) presents significant motor challenges.
- Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is a promising intervention for improving upper extremity function.
- This case report focuses on CIMT's impact on gross motor function in a child with CP.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old male with spastic triplegic cerebral palsy participated in the study.
- The intervention involved intensive occupational and physical therapy, including a 3-week CIMT protocol.
- A cast was worn for 90% of waking hours during the CIMT phase to enforce use of the affected limbs.
Findings:
- The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) score improved from 44.55% to 62.35%.
- Significant gains were observed in weight-bearing and weight-shifting abilities across various developmental positions.
- Improvements were also noted in specific areas of the Functional Independence Measure for Children (FIM-C).
Implications:
- CIMT can be an effective therapeutic approach for enhancing gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy.
- The findings support the use of CIMT to improve functional mobility and independence in this population.
- This case highlights the potential of CIMT to address specific motor deficits in pediatric CP.
Background And Purpose:
The purpose of this case report is to describe physical therapy interventions used and gross motor functional outcomes achieved during a 3-week course of constraint-induced movement therapy for a child with cerebral palsy.
Case Description:
A 10-year-old boy with spastic triplegic cerebral palsy underwent fine and gross motor interventions to force use of the left extremities and right lower extremity.
Intervention:
For weeks 1 to 2, he received 2 occupational and physical therapy sessions each week. For weeks 3 to 5, he participated in constraint-induced movement therapy, while wearing a cast 90% of waking hours.
Outcomes:
The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 score increased from 44.55% to 62.35% after treatment. Although he improved in one area of the Functional Independence Measure for Children, he demonstrated remarkable progress in his ability to bear weight and shift weight to his involved side in various developmental positions.
