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Purpose

Abstract by: Jeremy Karger

Blundell, S. W., Shephard, R. B., Dean, C. M., and Adams, R. D. (2003). Functional strength training in cerebral palsy: A pilot study of a group circuit training class for children aged 4-8 years. Clinical Rehabilitation, 17, 48-57.

Cerebral palsy impairs motor performance by reducing muscle strength and motor control. Movement and function are limited by increased muscle stiffness and soft tissue contracture. Over time, the deficits can negatively affect bone and muscle growth, range of motion, and the acquisition of motor skills.

Strength-training programs have gained increasing popularity as therapy for cerebral palsy. Therapy focuses on motor control and flexibility to limit or reduce muscle stiffness and soft tissue contracture. Training programs are aimed at improving strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness. Many previous studies focused on isometric strength training with success that does not equally translate to improvements in functional skills of daily activity. The purpose of this study was to test a lower-limb exercise program on the motor function of children with cerebral palsy in a group training class.

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This fact sheet was last updated on 12-20-2005.