Forward Versus Backward Gait Training on Functional Abilities in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Forward Versus Backward Gait Training on Functional Abilities in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy
This study aims to compare the effects of forward versus backward gait training on functional abilities in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Participants will receive gait training sessions focusing on either forward or backward walking to evaluate improvements in balance, mobility, and gross motor function.
> Cerebral palsy is a common neurological disorder in children that affects movement and posture. Spastic cerebral palsy is characterized by muscle stiffness and impaired motor control, which limits the child's functional mobility.
Gait training is an essential part of rehabilitation programs for children with cerebral palsy. Previous studies have shown that both forward and backward walking can improve motor performance, but limited evidence exists comparing the two methods directly.
The present randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of forward gait training versus backward gait training on functional abilities in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Participants will be randomly assigned into three groups: group (A) will receive a designed physical therapy program. group (B) will receive the same program with forward gait training on treadmill. group (C) will receive the same designed physical therapy program beside backward gait training on treadmill three times weekly over three successive months.
Outcome measures will include muscle strength of measurements, range of motion of lower limb,gait pattern changes and gross motor function measurements.
Inclusion Criteria:1-All children will be spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. 2- Age will be ranged from 6-9 years old. 3. They will have spasticity grade 1 to 1+ according to Modified Ashwarth's Scale (Appendix II).
4. Both genders will be included. 5. Their gross motor function ability will be selected at level I, II according to Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).
6. They will be able to understand and follow verbal commands included in evaluation and training.
Exclusion Criteria:
1- Any surgical intervention in upper or lower limbs. 2¬- Any type of fracture. 3- Visual and/or auditory defects. 4- Other neurological conditions rather than CP. 5- Significant tightness or fixed deformity of lower limbs and spine. 6- Congenital heart disease.