Interactive computer play as "motor therapy" for individuals with cerebral palsy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Cerebral palsy (CP) affects motor function, necessitating effective therapeutic interventions.
• Interactive computer play (ICP) is an emerging modality for motor rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the quality of evidence for ICP in improving motor performance in individuals with cerebral palsy.
• To assess ICP's impact on motor control, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive computer-assisted literature search was conducted.
• Seventeen articles were reviewed, focusing on upper/lower extremity function and cardiovascular fitness.
• Evidence quality was classified using American Academy of Neurology guidelines.

Main Results:

• Level B (probable) evidence supports ICP for improving lower extremity motor control/function in cerebral palsy.
• Inadequate evidence (Level U) exists for ICP's efficacy in upper limb motor control/function or cardiovascular fitness.
• Strongest evidence supports ICP for gross motor outcomes.

Conclusions:

• ICP demonstrates promise for enhancing gross motor skills in individuals with cerebral palsy.
• Further research is needed to establish the effectiveness of ICP for upper limb function and cardiovascular fitness.
• High-quality studies are warranted to support ICP as a therapeutic intervention for specific motor deficits in cerebral palsy.