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Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a novel functional strength and power-training program on gait and gross motor function in participants with unilateral cerebral palsy. Methods: This 12-week trial of functional strength and power training included 30 participants with cerebral palsy, randomly assigned to the experimental or comparison group. The primary outcomes, 1-minute walk test, muscle power, and the Gross Motor Function Measure, were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks after the intervention. Secondary outcomes included dynamic balance as measured by Timed Up and Go, muscle strength, and 1-repetition maximum measures. Results: Significantly greater improvements were seen in the experimental group for muscle power, Gross Motor Function Measure E score, and 1-minute walk test (P < .05), as well as for dynamic balance, 1-repetition maximum, and muscle strength. Conclusion: Functional strength training combined with plyometric exercises improved gait and gross motor function, dynamic balance, muscle strength, and power. Video Abstract: For more insights from the authors, access Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/PPT/A254

This study examined the effect of two different aerobic training modalities in a boy with spinal muscular atrophy type II. Motor functions were measured with Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale (HFMS) and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Spirometry was utilized for assessing pulmonary functions and PedsQL 3.0 Neuromuscular module was utilized for quality of life of child. Ergometer training was applied 3 times per week for the duration of 12 weeks. After 6 weeks of wash-out period, aquatherapy was applied for twice a week for the duration of 12 weeks. HFMS and GMFM scores, and pulmonary functions of the child and quality of life scores of his parents were improved during both modalities. These improvements were largely maintained during 1-year follow-up. This study showed that both modalities had similar effects on our case’s pulmonary, motor functions and quality life of himself and parents. It will be a guide for researchers working in the area of children with neuromuscular disorders regarding plan and diversification of therapy program.

Objectives: To determine the effect of family-based intervention on motor function in preterm infants. Methods: This study was designed as a randomized controlled trial between August 2015 and September 2016. Forty-two preterm infants were randomized and split equally between the family-based intervention group, composed of a physiotherapeutic and a familial component)8 males, 8 females; mean age 91±3.09 days(, and the traditional early intervention group)8 females, 8 males, mean age: 91.06±2.4 days(. Both groups received a treatment program based on a neurodevelopmental approach during 3-to 12-months-old. The groups were evaluated at corrected ages of the third, sixth, ninth, twelfth, and 24th months using the Bayley Scale of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition)Bayley-III(. Results: Within-group changes over time were statistically significant using multivariate tests of fine motor)Multivariate analysis of variance)MANOVA(; F=1515.27, p<0.001(and gross motor)MANOVA; F=1950.59, p=0.001(development. However, there was no interaction between groups in fine)MANOVA; F=0.027, p=0.872(and gross motor development)MANOVA; F=0.022, p=0.883(. Conclusion: The early intervention approaches might support fine and gross motor function development in preterm infants in the first year of life.

Abstract. [Purpose] To examine the distribution of and relationship between the Gross Motor Function, Manual Ability, and Communication Function Classification Systems in different limbs of children with spastic cerebral palsy. We also investigated whether the four predicting variables of gender, age, manual ability, and gross motor classifications could significantly predict effective and non-effective communicator groups in communication function. [Subjects and Methods] This retrospective cross-sectional study included 327 children with a mean age of 10.13 ± 4.09 years. Classifications were performed by an experienced pediatric physiotherapist.[Results] Gross motor function levels showed a strong correlation with manual ability levels (r s =0.78). Manual ability level was strongly correlated with communication function levels (r s =0.73), particularly in quadriplegic children (r s = 0.78). Gross motor function levels were moderately correlated with communication function levels (r s =0.71). Effective communicators in communication function showed more functional levels of manual ability and were determined by Gross Motor Function classifications. The variables were better at predicting ineffective communicators (91% correct) compared with effective communicators (85% correct). [Conclusion] Further studies are needed to relate these functional performance systems to the activity and participation levels as well as the quality of life, desires, and participation of the subjects.

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