Supervised Fitness Program for Adults With Cerebral Palsy

Does Participating in a Supervised Fitness Program Extend the Benefits of Episodic Physical Therapy More Than a Home Exercise Program for Adults With Cerebral Palsy?

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of 2 community intervention approaches to maintain community mobility and walking speed in adults with cerebral palsy who have previously completed an 8 week course of physical therapy.

The proposed study will address the lifelong need for fitness in adults with cerebral palsy compared to individuals provided with a home exercise program at the end of their individualized physical therapy, individuals in the fitness group will…

Primary Hypothesis:

1. Have higher Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adapted Test (PEDICAT) scores at the +12 weeks post intervention visit

2. Increase their PEDICAT scores across the study period, while the home fitness group will decrease performance on the PEDICAT.

3. Complete the Timed Up and Go (TUG) more quickly at +12 weeks post intervention

   Secondary Hypothesis (study not powered for these variables):

4. Walk further on the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) at the +12 weeks post intervention visit

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults with cerebral palsy Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I, II, or III
• Completion of episode of physical therapy provided by the Developmental Disabilities program at Sheltering Arms within the one month prior to the baseline assessment
• Lives within the community in their own home or group housing

Exclusion Criteria:

• GMFCS level IV or V
• Unable to follow two-step directions
• Adults who have a medical or legal power of attorney who sign their health authorization