The efficacy of physical therapy on the improvement of the motor components of visual attention in children with cerebral palsy: a case series study.

Abstract

This paper has attempted to compare the effects of Bobath’s concept with control’s session on the improvement of visual attention in children with cerebral palsy. A 10 children sample (7 girls and 3 boys) aged 6 to 16 years (median, 12 years) was collected. The group who had received Bobath-based treatment crossed-over to control treatment and the previous control group received Bobath-based treatment for once a week. Measures were assessed at pre- and posttreatment. Outcome measure included the visual attention, we used Conners’ Kiddie Continuous Performance Test (K-CPT). Bobath’s session targeted to crossed-over participants produced greater improvements in K-CPT(RT) (difference=33.1, P<0.05) at posttreatment compared to the control’s session group, whereas the improvement of K-CPT did not differ between groups. The results of this case series study showed a significant improvement on visual attention through the improvement of motor control functions after the Bobath’s session over the control’s session.