Influence Of Using Standing Frame With Time Variations On Locomotive Abilities And Quality Of Life In Non-Ambulant Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a heterogeneous group of persistent, non-progressive mobility and posture impairments which are caused by damage to the brain while the infant or fetus is still growing. It is marked by a lack of normal control over motor functions and affecting the child's ability to explore, speak, learn and become independent. Objective: To evaluate influence of using standing frame with time variations on locomotive ability and quality of life in non-ambulant cerebral palsy. Subjects and Methods: Sixty-six children having spastic CP (diplegia and quadriplegia) of both sexes took-part in this study. All children in this study were received standing exercise program for 60 minutes/3 sessions per week for 6 consecutive months. They were assigned into 3 groups: Group A. Twenty-two children were received standing exercise program 3 times per week and using standing frame for one hour daily. Group B. Twenty-two children were received standing exercise 3 times per week and using standing frame for three interrupted hours daily. Group C. Twenty-two children were received standing exercise 3times per week and using standing frame for 5 interrupted hours daily. They were re-evaluated after 6 months of treatment. Growth motor function measure, pediatric balance scale and hand-held dynamometer used to assess locomotive ability and quality of life questionnaire to assess quality of life. Results: There was a significant increase in quadriceps, hip abductors, hip extensors, and back extensors strength in groups A, B & C post-treatment compared with baseline values. There was a significant improvement in GMFM and PedsQL in groups A, B & C post-treatment compared with baseline values). Conclusion: Using standing frame with time variations has an effect on locomotive abilities and quality of life in non-ambulant spastic cerebral palsy.