Combined effect of spiral suit and physical therapy in rehabilitation of quadriplegic cerebral palsy patients in rural areas

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In cerebral palsy, the pattern of clinical presentation may vary from time to time because of development of increased tone, growth, and maturation of the brain. Spiral suit and ankle foot orthosis (AFO) has been utilized as the stability device in combination with the physiotherapeutic exercises such as stretching, strengthening for weak muscles, weight bearing exercises, balance training on balance board and gait training. As manual stabilization is not so supportive, there is a need of such a stabilization device. The study aims to investigate the utility of spiral suit along with physical therapy to improve motor functions in quadriplegic cerebral palsy patients. Methods: Fifty children with cerebral quadriplegia of both sexes (3–12 years) included in the study. Gross motor function measure (GMFM)-88 version is utilized to assess and evaluate gross motor functions (GMFs). Treatment included various physiotherapeutic exercises as stretching, strengthening exercises for weak muscles, weight-bearing exercises, balance training on balance board, and gait training along with the spiral suit and AFO as a stability device. The treatment session of 40–45 min 6 days a week was provided for a month. The patients were reassessed using GMFM-88 scale. Results: Statistical analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. Children showed a significant improvement in motor functions of quadriplegic cerebral palsy children when assessed post treatment on GMFM-88 (t = 98.86; P