Abstract
An estimated 125–137 Danish children with acquired brain injury (ABI) require rehabilitation annually, 30–40 of these at a highly specialized level. Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) has shown significant effects in increasing function in children with cerebral palsy. More knowledge of how CIMT can be adapted for the rehabilitation of children with ABI is needed. The primary purpose of the study was to generate new knowledge about the pedagogical initiatives and frameworks involved in children’s participation in and activities during CIMT. Four children with ABI participated in the 60 h intervention. Data generation consisted of qualitative research through participant observations and healthcare professional evaluations. A didactical approach with individualization and a solid structural framework enhanced the possibility of securing the children’s motivation for and participation in the intervention. Adaptation, compensation and individualization were crucial factors in the achievement of changes in functional skills. Spontaneous functional use and natural bimanual involvement increased, indicating that CIMT intervention encourages the retrieval of natural involvement of the impaired upper limb after ABI. Individualization, attention, firm structure and goal-specific tasks are key didactical factors to maintain children’s motivation to participate during CIMT to increase functional skills and spontaneous and natural bimanual involvement of the impaired upper limb during activities.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call