Effects of adding interferential current (IFC) in standard therapy (Lactulose) in cerebral palsy children with constipation

Abstract

To determine the addition of interferential current (IFC) in treating constipation in children with cerebral palsy (CP), is more effective than standard therapy (lactulose). An experimental study with a single blind randomized controlled trial. Prior to receiving therapy, the subjects examined the baseline data regarding the Constipation Scoring System (CSS). The total subjects were 18 children with CP who had constipation according to ROME IV criteria, which were divided into two groups, the control group who received standard therapy (lactulose) and the intervention group who received lactulose plus IFC therapy with a frequency of 4000-4100 Hz, duration 20 minutes, 3 times a week for 1 month. A week after the last IFC, CSS was re-evaluated to assess outcomes. Data were analyzed computerized with SPSS v20.0. There was an improvement of CSS in CP with constipation who received additional IFC (P= .002) and lactulose P= .014). There was no significant difference of CSS between the two groups after therapy (P= .917).