Biofeedback interventions for people with cerebral palsy: a systematic review protocol

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong disability impacting motor control and daily activities.
• Individuals with CP may experience challenges with arm and/or leg function.
• Biofeedback therapy offers a rehabilitation strategy by providing real-time performance data to aid motor skill development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of biofeedback interventions on motor performance in people with cerebral palsy.
• To assess the impact of biofeedback on motor learning in individuals with CP.
• To identify effective biofeedback mechanisms for CP rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across multiple databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, etc.).
• Independent screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts by two reviewers.
• Data extraction and quality assessment using GRADE methodology.

Main Results:

• Existing studies show varied approaches to biofeedback implementation in CP.
• A need exists for consolidated evidence on effective biofeedback strategies.
• Further research is required to optimize biofeedback for CP populations.

Conclusions:

• Biofeedback interventions show promise for improving motor function in cerebral palsy.
• Standardization of biofeedback mechanisms is needed for consistent clinical application.
• This review aims to inform the development of targeted biofeedback rehabilitation protocols for CP.