Synchronous Telerehabilitation vs Face to Face Method for Upper Extremity Functions in Children With Hemiparetic CP

Comparison of Synchronous Telerehabilitation and Face to Face Method for Improving Upper Extremity Functions in Children With Hemiparetic Cerebral Palsy

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of synchronous telerehabilitation on improving upper extremity function in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.

46 children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy who meet the inclusion criteria and agree to participate in the study will be included. The participants will be randomly divided into two groups. The groups are: a) the synchronous telerehabilitation group; b) face to face rehabilitation group. Both groups will receive physiotherapy 2 days a week (1 session of 45 minutes) for 12 weels, for a total of 24 sessions. Evaluations will be made at baseline and the end of the treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Presence of confirmed hemiparetic cerebral palsy
• Manual Ability Classification System ≤ 3
• Age between 6 and 18
• Absence of major visual and/or auditory deficits
• Sufficient cooperation to comprehend and complete the test procedure and participate in treatment
• Family members being active mobile phone or computer and internet users

Exclusion Criteria:

• Seizures uncontrolled by therapy
• Surgery and/or botulinum toxin-A injections in the upper limb within 6 months prior to the baseline assessment
• Having a disabling behavioral disorder to treatment
• Family's discontinuation of treatment