Cross-Training and Locomotor Abilities in Cerebral Palsy

Effect of Cross-Training on Locomotor Abilities in Children with Spastic Hemiparesis

The purpose was to investigate the effect of cross-training as a method of unilateral motor priming on locomotor abilities in children with spastic unilateral cerebral palsy.

Thirty children with spastic unilateral cerebral palsy were recruited from different rehabilitation centers. They were assigned randomly into two groups. Children in the control group (A) were engaged in a selected physical therapy program while those in the experimental group (B) received cross-training program followed by application of the same selected physical therapy program received by group (A). The treatment programs were conducted five times per week for six successive weeks. Measurements obtained included active ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (AROM), and the speed of walking obtained by 10-meter walking test. These measures were recorded two times: pre- and post-treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Spasticity grade 1 to 1+, according to the Modified Ashworth Scale.
• Can stand and walk autonomously.
• Able to follow verbal commands and instructions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Fixed musculoskeletal deformities
• significant cognitive disorders
• significant perceptual disorders
• significant auditory disorders
• significant visual disorders