Neuromuscular approach to the motor deficits of cerebral palsy: a pilot study

Six children with mild cerebral palsy (CP) entered a study of overnight low-intensity transcutaneous electrical stimulation (ES) to the leg muscles. After 6 months, statistically significant improvement was noted on the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales scores in gross motor, locomotor, and receipt/propulsion skills. When ES was withdrawn for 6 months, there was uniform loss in scores. Reinstitution of ES resulted in further significant improvements in total gross motor, balance, locomotor, and receipt/propulsion skills. In selected cases, overnight ES may be a useful addition to standard rehabilitation services.