Training Balance Control in Children With Cerebral Palsy Using Virtual Reality Games

Training Balance Control Using Virtual Reality Games in Children With Cerebral Palsy and Typically Developing Children

In this study the clinical relevance of the use of commercially available virtual reality games in the rehabilitation of balance will be assessed in children with cerebral palsy. It will be investigated how different commercially available platforms (i.e. Xbox One + Kinect and Nintendo Wii + balance board) will affect the compensations of children with cerebral palsy to preserve their balance. The effect of 1 training session will be assessed as well as the effect of a long-term training of 8 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. children diagnosed with cerebral palsy (spastic type)
2. age: 8-11 years and 11 months
3. bilateral CP (diplegia) & unilateral CP (hemiplegia)
4. GMFCS level 1 & 2
5. able to independently stand still for 2 minutes
6. sufficient cooperation to participate in the measurements and training

Exclusion Criteria:

1. No informed consent
2. surgery of the lower limbs that affects mobility
3. Botulinum-toxin A treatment within 6 months prior to inclusion in the study
4. vestibular deficits, benign vertigo, ADHD or instable epilepsia

For typically developing children:

Inclusion criteria;

1. age: 8-11 years and 11 months
2. no history of neurologic, musculoskeletal or other impairments that could affect mobility