Effect of Resistance Training on Muscular Function and Functional Mobility in Adults with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disorder due to damage in the brain leading to musculoskeletal dysfunction and immobility. Physical deconditioning of individuals with CP appears to accelerate muscle atrophy and osteoporosis; thus, adults with CP are more prone to fall and fracture. The lower state of balance and functional mobility is also related to the higher risk of fall in the general public, and resistance training is known to improve overall muscular strength and functional mobility. However, equivocal results were reported whether resistance training has a positive effect on muscular function and balance in CP population. PURPOSE: To determine the influence of resistance training to muscular strength and balance in adults with CP who already developed muscle atrophy and osteoporosis. METHODS: Twenty adults with and without CP were recruited. Seven CP participants completed post-exercise experiments after performing resistance training twice a week for three months. Muscular strength (torque, work, and power) at 90, 150, and 210 0/sec were assessed in the leg using the Humac Norm Isokinetic Dynamometer. Functional mobility was assessed from the Berg Balance Test, and limits of stability test using the Biodex balance system. RESULTS: CP group had significantly lower knee extensor peak torque (e.g., 11.8±2.3 CP vs. 68±12.5 control, ft-lbs, P<0.05), and lower knee flexor peak torque (e.g., 6.3±1.6 CP vs. 43.8±7.9 control, ft-lbs, P<0.05) compared to control. After 3 months of training, CP group did not show statistical differences in muscular strength [e.g., extensor peak torque (27.5±17.0 pre vs. 31.5±24.2 post, ft-lbs, P>0.05), and flexor peak torque (9.3±5.6 pre, vs. 15.0±10.9 post, ft-lbs, P>0.05], or balance [e.g. overall score (25.2±16.1 pre vs. 24.3±11.4 post p>0.05) on limit of stability test, total score (18.0±19.5 pre vs. 24.4±21.6 p>0.05) on Berg Balance test. However, individuals who improved peak torque in knee flexors and extensors also improved postural stability via the Berg balance test. CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary findings suggest that muscular strength influences functional mobility in adults with CP only after exercise training.