Combined effects of functional task training with electrical stimulation on motor abilities and balance in children with diplegia

Abstract

Abstract Background Children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) often demonstrate gluteus medius weakness that causes balance deficits and frequent falling during walking. Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate the combined effects of functional task training with electrical stimulation of bilateral hip abductor muscles on motor abilities (standing and walking) and balance in children with spastic diplegic CP. Methods Thirty children with diplegic CP of both sexes whose ages ranged from 7 to 10 years were assigned randomly into two equal groups. For both groups, motor abilities were assessed by gross motor function measure (GMFM), and balance (static and dynamic) was assessed by the humac balance system before and after the study. The control group received a functional training program focusing on standing walking and balance exercises. While children in the study group received the same functional training program with bilateral electrical stimulation of gluteus medius muscles for 50 min. The treatment program for both groups was conducted for 3 sessions/week for 8 weeks. Results There were statistically significant differences between the control and study group post-treatment in GMFM as well as the center of pressure test and weight shift test in favor of the study group (p < 0.05). Conclusion Using functional task training with electrical stimulation for treatment of children with spastic diplegic CP have significant effects on improving their motor abilities and balance that suggests using it in rehabilitation for these children.