Functional Exercise Training With Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy

Functional Exercise Intervention With Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy

This cross-over study analyzes a novel and inclusive approach in how therapy for adolescents with CP is administered, with the main goal of examining the effects of a functional exercise intervention on motor capability and motor capacity.

It is to investigate the effects of a functional movement-based exercise intervention in a group setting on motor capacity, motor capability and quality of life in adolescents with CP compared to standard therapy.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a permanent disorder which affects the development of movement and posture. It causes activity limitation and is oftentimes accompanied by secondary musculoskeletal problems, disturbances of sensation, perception, cognition, communication and behavior.

In regard of the complex interplay between physical restrictions, motor disabilities, sedentary lifestyles and low participation in physical activity, an innovative exercise intervention study for adolescents with CP is intended in order to break the stated vicious cycle. This study aims at providing a novel and inclusive approach in how therapy for adolescents with CP is administered, with the main goal of examining the effects of a functional exercise intervention on motor capability and motor capacity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of CP.
• Adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age.
• Gross Motor Functional Classification System (GMFCS): I-III.
• Cognitive abilities must include: Ability to actively engage in a training session of 60 min. duration; Ability to verbally or non-verbally communicate pain or discomfort; Ability to attend training, testing and follow-up sessions. All included participants are capable of making decisions on their own and no not show any signs of mental or cognitive limitations.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any surgery or botulinum toxin treatment within 6 months prior to the start of the study or surgery/serial casting / botulinum toxin injection scheduled during the study period. Other medications can be continued as prescribed by the participants' physician.
• Known cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases that have not received medical clearance to participate in the physical exercise intervention.
• Uncontrolled seizures or epilepsy