Effect of Adapted Physical Activity in Children and Young Adults with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is considered the most common cause of disability in childhood. People suffering from CP are characterized by deficits that limit their abilities and make it difficult to perform daily activities. The application of adapted physical activity (APA) physiotherapy programs has interested many researchers over the years. This systematic review aimed to examine and evaluate the existing evidence on the effects of various APA in different domains of life of children and young adults with CP. The review will fill the existing knowledge gaps in the literature, offer suggestions for future research, and build evidence-based practices in APA for people with CP. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The research was conducted by searching several scientific databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and science direct. The inclusion criteria consisted of randomized controlled trials published from 2015 to 2021, full text in the English language, and a sample aged (15-30 years) with a medical diagnosis of CP. Studies that used adapted physical activity (APA) interventions were also included as long as they matched the predetermined standards. The methodological quality was assessed according to the PEDro scale. A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. The samples covered all levels of the gross motor function classification system (GMFCS I-V) with an age range of 16–29 years and both genders. The results showed diversity and improvements in various health parameters of children and young adults with CP. APA significantly affects the motor and psychosocial status of young people with CP and may function as a therapeutic supplement in the existing physiotherapy programs.