A randomized clinical trial of strength training in young people with cerebral palsy

Abstract

This randomized clinical trial evaluated the effects of a home‐based, six‐week strength‐training programme on lower limb strength and physical activity of 21 young people (11 females, 10 males; mean age 13 years 1 month, SD 3 years 1 month; range 8 to 18 years) with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) with independent ambulation, with or without gait aids; (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I to III). Compared with the 10 controls, the 11 participants in the strength‐training programme increased their lower limb strength (combined ankle plantarflexor and knee extensor strength as measured by a hand‐held dynamometer) at 6 weeks (F(1,19)=4.58, p=0.046) and at a follow‐up 12 weeks later (F(1,18)=6.25, p=0.041). At 6 weeks, trends were also evident for improved scores in Gross Motor Function Measure dimensions D and E for standing, running and jumping, and faster stair climbing. A relatively short clinically feasible home‐based training programme can lead to lasting changes in the strength of key lower‐limb muscles that may impact on the daily function of young people with CP.