A Systematic Review of the Efficacy of Conservative Interventions on the Gait of Ambulant Adults with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

To identify, appraise and synthesize evidence regarding efficacy of conservative interventions (physiotherapeutic, pharmacological) to improve walking in ambulant adults with cerebral palsy (CP). Standard search and extraction methods were utilised. A descriptive synthesis was performed with additional limited meta-analysis where the same outcome measurements were used and clinical heterogeneity was low. Interventions were considered according to target domain (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health). From 1571 papers identified, 10 met inclusion criteria. Study exclusion was predominantly due to gait not being a target of the intervention, or non-adult age range. Five randomised controlled trials were identified. Interventions were diverse and included strength training, sensory cueing, neurodevelopmental training, whole body vibration and spasticity medication. A small between-group effect on gait speed was found, weighted mean difference 0.09 (95 % CI 0.03 to 0.16). Evidence to support efficacy of one physiotherapeutic or pharmacological intervention over another to improve gait in adults with CP is currently limited. Further research is required using standardised gait outcome measures, longer follow up periods and higher quality trial designs.