Effect of body-weight suspension training versus treadmill training on gross motor abilities of children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND

Suspension training and treadmill training are commonly used for promoting functional gross motor skills in children with cerebral palsy.

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of body-weight suspension training versus treadmill training on gross motor functional skills.

DESIGN

Assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled intervention study.

SETTING

Outpatient rehabilitation facility.

POPULATION: Twenty children with spastic diplegia (7 boys and 13 girls) in the age ranged from 6 to 8 years old were randomly allocated into two equal groups. All children were assessed at baseline, after 18-session and after 36-session.

METHODS

During the twelve-week outpatient rehabilitation program, both groups received traditional therapeutic exercises. Additionally, one group received locomotor training using the treadmill while the other group received locomotor training using body-weight suspension through the dynamic spider cage. Assessment included dimensions "D" standing and "E" walking of the gross motor function measure, in addition to the 10-m Walking Test and the five times sit to stand test. Training was applied three times per week for twelve consecutive weeks.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found in standing or walking ability for measurements taken at baseline or after 18-session of therapy. Measurements taken at 36-session showed that suspension training achieved significantly (P<0.05) higher average score than treadmill training for dimension D as well as for dimension E. No significant difference was found between suspension training and treadmill training regarding walking speed or sit to stand transitional skills.

CONCLUSIONS

Body-weight suspension training is effective in improving walking and locomotor capabilities in children with spastic diplegia. After three month suspension training was superior to treadmill training.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT: Body-weight suspension training promotes adequate postural stability, good balance control, and less exertion which facilitates efficient and safe gait.