Modified constraint-induced movement therapy during hospitalization in children with perinatal brachial plexus palsy:...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Neurology
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Children with perinatal brachial plexus palsy (PBPP) experience upper extremity motion limitations.
• Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) is a therapeutic option to enhance limb function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mCIMT with conventional therapy for improving active range of motion (ROM) and functional use of the affected upper extremity in children with PBPP.
• To evaluate outcomes in children with upper and middle trunk PBPP injuries within a hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study involving 39 children (mean age 56.3 months).
• The study group (13 patients) received mCIMT (1-hour daily sessions for 14 days, with unaffected arm constraint for 6 hours/day).
• The control group (26 patients) received a conventional rehabilitation program. Assessments included active ROM, active movement scale, hand dynamometer, and box and blocks test at baseline and post-therapy intervals.

Main Results:

• The mCIMT group demonstrated greater improvements compared to the control group.
• Significant gains were observed in shoulder internal rotation, forearm supination, and elbow flexion active ROMs.
• Enhanced hand grip strength and overall upper extremity function were noted in the mCIMT group.

Conclusions:

• mCIMT shows promise in promoting functional recovery for children diagnosed with PBPP.
• The study suggests that mCIMT should be considered for wider application in routine clinical settings for pediatric patients with PBPP.