Movement Disorder Change in a Child with Choreic Movement Disorder Using an Elasto-Compressive Bodysuit

Background/Objectives: Dynamic movement orthoses (DMOs) are elasto-compressive bodysuits used in the rehabilitation of children with motor disabilities, mainly in children with cerebral palsy. Among the DMOs, the FLEXA^® represents one of the most frequently used orthoses in clinical practice due to its adaptability and flexibility. The purpose of this case study is to describe the application of FLEXA^® in an 18-month-old female child with choreic cerebral palsy. Methods: To evaluate the effect of the dynamic movement orthosis (FLEXA^®), the Movement Disorder-Childhood Rating Scale (MD-CRS) 0-3 years was administered. The child was evaluated before the use of the FLEXA^® bodysuit, and with the bodysuit donned approximately 30 min after its application. A follow-up using the same assessments was carried out at 6 months. Results: The results showed an important change in the severity of the movements according to the MD-CRS; mainly, the child's movement disorder severity changed from a grade five severity (profoundly affected) without the bodysuit to grade three (moderately affected) with the use of the bodysuit. The benefit was maintained during follow-up even without the bodysuit, and a further improvement was observed in assessments with the bodysuit. Conclusions: This case report highlights the potential benefits of dynamic movement orthosis, like the FLEXA^®, in managing movement disorders in children with choreic form of cerebral palsy. Extending the study to a larger sample would help to strengthen the validity of these findings and confirm the beneficial effects of use of DMOs for children with movement disorders.