Efficacy and Acceptability of Reduced Intensity Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy for Children Aged 9–11 years with Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Pilot Study. (1st August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McConnell, Karen; Johnston, Linda; Kerr, Claire
• Is Part Of: Physical & occupational therapy in pediatrics. Volume 34:Number 4(2014)
• Page Start: 245
• Page End: 259
• Publication Date: 2014-08-01
• Subjects: Cerebral palsy -- children -- constraint therapy -- treatment -- upper limb; Physical therapy for children -- Periodicals; Occupational therapy for children -- Periodicals; Child development deviations -- Periodicals; 615.82083
• DOI: 10.3109/01942638.2013.866611
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0194-2638

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective: Assess efficacy and acceptability of reduced intensity constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods: Single-subject research design and semi-structured interviews. Children (9–11y) with hemiplegia underwent five baseline assessments followed by two weeks CIMT. Six further assessments were performed during treatment and follow-up phases. The primary outcome was the Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function (MUUL). Quantitative data were analysed using standard single-subject methods and qualitative data by thematic analysis. Results: Four of the seven participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements in MUUL (3–11%, p < .05). Two participants achieved significant improvements in active range of motion but strength and tone remained largely unchanged. Qualitative interviews highlighted limitations of the restraint, importance of family involvement, and coordination of treatment with education. Conclusions: Reduced intensity CIMT may be effective for some children in this population; however it is not suitable for all children with hemiplegia.