Modified constraint-induced movement therapy for a 12-month-old child with hemiplegia: a case report.

OBJECTIVE

This case report describes the use of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) to improve upper-limb function in a 12-month-old child with right hemiplegia. It also describes parent concerns about CIMT and documents the short- and long-term effects of modified CIMT.

METHOD: The participant was assessed 5 times over a 7.5-month period using the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2, Pediatric Motor Activity Log, Toddler Amount of Use Test, and Knox Parent Questionnaire. CIMT included a nonremovable cast worn on the unaffected arm and approximately 8 hr per week of occupational and physical therapy for 2 weeks.

RESULTS

Benefits of improved upper-limb function measured immediately after CIMT were sustained at 6 months' follow-up. No adverse events related to cast use were reported.

DISCUSSION: The findings from this case report suggest that CIMT was a safe intervention associated with improving upper-limb function for this young child with hemiplegia.