Effects of taping the hand in children with cerebral palsy

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Pediatric Neurology
• Occupational Therapy

Background:

• Thumb-in-palm deformity in children with cerebral palsy (CP) significantly impairs hand function and somatosensory input due to spasticity.
• Effective interventions are crucial for improving upper extremity function in pediatric CP patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of thenar palmar tape application, with and without pressure, on upper extremity function in children with CP.
• To determine if taping can mechanically reposition the thumb and improve hand function.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 45 children with CP, assigned to thenar taping with pressure, without pressure, or a control group.
• Upper extremity function was assessed using the Nine-Hole Peg Test and the Nine-Part Puzzle Test.
• Assessments were conducted before taping, 20 minutes after application, and 20 minutes after tape removal.

Main Results:

• Initially, the control group showed better performance in both dexterity tests.
• After 20 minutes of taping, no significant differences were observed between the taping and control groups, indicating taping's effectiveness.
• A carry-over effect was noted 20 minutes post-taping specifically in the palmar pressure group.

Conclusions:

• Thenar palmar taping is an effective, non-invasive method for improving upper extremity function in children with CP.
• Taping mechanically controls the thumb-in-palm posture, facilitating improved hand positioning and sensory input.
• The palmar pressure taping method demonstrated a sustained functional benefit post-intervention.