RESUMEN

Our understanding of the neurobiology underlying cognitive dysfunction in persons with cerebral palsy is very limited, especially in the neurocognitive domain of visual selective attention. This investigation utilized magnetoencephalography and an Eriksen arrow-based flanker task to quantify the dynamics underlying selective attention in a cohort of youth and adults with cerebral palsy (n = 31; age range = 9 to 47 yr) and neurotypical controls (n = 38; age range = 11 to 49 yr). The magnetoencephalography data were transformed into the time-frequency domain to identify neural oscillatory responses and imaged using a beamforming approach. The behavioral results indicated that all participants exhibited a flanker effect (greater response time for the incongruent compared to congruent condition) and that individuals with cerebral palsy were slower and less accurate during task performance. We computed interference maps to focus on the attentional component and found aberrant alpha (8 to 14 Hz) oscillations in the right primary visual cortices in the group with cerebral palsy. Alpha and theta (4 to 7 Hz) oscillations were also seen in the left and right insula, and these oscillations varied with age across all participants. Overall, persons with cerebral palsy exhibit deficiencies in the cortical dynamics serving visual selective attention, but these aberrations do not appear to be uniquely affected by age.

Asunto(s)

Ritmo alfa , Atención , Parálisis Cerebral , Magnetoencefalografía , Humanos , Adulto , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Adolescente , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto Joven , Atención/fisiología , Niño , Persona de Mediana Edad , Ritmo alfa/fisiología , Percepción Visual/fisiología , Estimulación Luminosa/métodos , Tiempo de Reacción/fisiología

RESUMEN

This single-participant case study examines the feasibility of using custom virtual reality (VR) gaming software in the home environment for low-dose Hand Arm Bimanual Intensive Training (HABIT). A 10-year-old with right unilateral cerebral palsy participated in this trial. Fine and gross motor skills as well as personal goals for motor outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention using the Box and Blocks Test, Nine-Hole Peg Test, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Movement intensities collected via the VR hardware accelerometers, VR game scores, and task accuracy were recorded via the HABIT-VR software as indices of motor performance. The child and family were instructed to use the HABIT-VR games twice daily for 30 minutes over a 14-day period and asked to record when they used the system. The child used the system and completed the 14-hour, low-dose HABIT-VR intervention across 22 days. There was no change in Box and Blocks Test and Nine-Hole Peg Test scores before and after the intervention. Canadian Occupational Performance Measure scores increased but did not reach the clinically relevant threshold, due to high scores at baseline. Changes in motor task intensities during the use of VR and mastery of the VR bimanual tasks suggested improved motor efficiency. This case study provides preliminary evidence that HABIT-VR is useful for promoting adherence to HABIT activities and for the maintenance of upper extremity motor skills in the home setting.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Estudios de Factibilidad , Realidad Virtual , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Niño , Masculino , Destreza Motora/fisiología , Juegos de Video , Brazo , Mano/fisiología , Femenino

Asunto(s)

Toxinas Botulínicas Tipo A , Parálisis Cerebral , Caminata , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/tratamiento farmacológico , Toxinas Botulínicas Tipo A/uso terapéutico , Toxinas Botulínicas Tipo A/administración & dosificación , Niño , Fármacos Neuromusculares/uso terapéutico

RESUMEN

The understanding of foot and ankle biomechanics is improving as new technology provides more detailed information about the motion of foot and ankle bones with biplane fluoroscopy, as well as the ability to analyze the hindfoot under weightbearing conditions with weightbearing computed tomography. Three-dimensional anatomical coordinate systems are necessary to describe the 3D alignment and kinematics of the foot and ankle. The lack of standard coordinate systems across research study sites can significantly alter experimental data analyses used for pre-surgical evaluation and post-operative outcome assessments. Clinical treatment paradigms are changing based on the expanding knowledge of complex pes planovalgus morphologies or progressive collapsing foot deformity, which is present in both neurologic and non-neurologic populations. Four patient cohorts were created from 10 flexible PCFD, 10 rigid PCFD, 10 adult cerebral palsy, and 10 asymptomatic control patients. Six coordinate systems were tested on both the talus and calcaneus for all groups. The aim of this study was to evaluate axes definitions for the subtalar joint across four different patient populations to determine the influence of morphology on the implementation of previously defined coordinate systems. Different morphologic presentations from various pathologies have a substantial impact on coordinate system definitions, given that numerous axes definitions are defined through geometric fits or manual landmark selection. Automated coordinate systems that align with clinically relevant anatomic planes are preferred. Principal component axes are automatic, but do not align with clinically relevant planes and should not be used for such analysis where anatomic planes are critical.

Asunto(s)

Calcáneo , Astrágalo , Humanos , Astrágalo/diagnóstico por imagen , Astrágalo/fisiopatología , Adulto , Calcáneo/diagnóstico por imagen , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Fenómenos Biomecánicos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/diagnóstico por imagen , Parálisis Cerebral/patología

RESUMEN

This study introduced a depth-sensing-based approach with robust algorithms for tracking relative morphological changes in the chests of patients undergoing physical therapy. The problem that was addressed was the periodic change in morphological parameters induced by breathing, and since the recording was continuous, the parameters were extracted for the moments of maximum and minimum volumes of the chest (inspiration and expiration moments), and analyzed. The parameters were derived from morphological transverse cross-sections (CSs), which were extracted for the moments of maximal and minimal depth variations, and the reliability of the results was expressed through the coefficient of variation (CV) of the resulting curves. Across all subjects and levels of observed anatomy, the mean CV for CS depth values was smaller than 2%, and the mean CV of the CS area was smaller than 1%. To prove the reproducibility of measurements (extraction of morphological parameters), 10 subjects were recorded in two consecutive sessions with a short interval (2 weeks) where no changes in the monitored parameters were expected and statistical methods show that there was no statistically significant difference between the sessions, which confirms the reproducibility hypothesis. Additionally, based on the representative CSs for inspiration and expirations moments, chest mobility in quiet breathing was examined, and the statistical test showed no difference between the two sessions. The findings justify the proposed algorithm as a valuable tool for evaluating the impact of rehabilitation exercises on chest morphology.

Asunto(s)

Algoritmos , Parálisis Cerebral , Tórax , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/patología , Niño , Masculino , Tórax/diagnóstico por imagen , Femenino , Respiración , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados

RESUMEN

This study aimed to determine the physical performance profile (ability to change direction, vertical and horizontal jump, sprint ability, and dribbling-specific skills) of the first women football players with cerebral palsy (CP) who participated in an international CP football competition, accounting for their sport classes. We also examined the relationships between the different physical performance variables. Forty-five female players with CP (24.9 ± 7.5 years) were categorised into three sport classes based on their impairment severity: 19 were FT1 (severe impairments); 21 FT2; and 5 FT3 (mild impairments). Various physical performance tests were conducted, including the 505 change of direction test; vertical and horizontal jumps; 10 m sprint test; and the dribbling speed test. Significant correlations were observed between the change of direction ability, sprint (r = 0.89; p < 0.01), and dribbling tests (r = 0.71; p < 0.01), as well as between horizontal jump and sprint time (r = - 0.74; p < 0.01). FT1 players demonstrated poorer performance compared to FT3 in the 505 test and standing broad jump (p < 0.05; dg = -1.79 and 1.22 respectively), but also lower vertical jump heights (p < 0.05; dg = -0.91 to -1.57) and increased time required for sprint (p < 0.05; dg = 0.88 to 1.16) and dribbling tests (p < 0.05; dg = 0.85 to 1.44) compared to both FT2 and FT3 players. These findings offer valuable insights into the physical performance characteristics of female footballers with CP, which can guide training and sport enhancement programs for this unique para-sport population.

Asunto(s)

Rendimiento Atlético , Parálisis Cerebral , Fútbol , Humanos , Femenino , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Adulto , Rendimiento Atlético/fisiología , Adulto Joven , Rendimiento Físico Funcional , Adolescente , Atletas

RESUMEN

Recent advances in brain mapping tools have enabled the study of brain activity during functional tasks, revealing neuroplasticity after early brain injuries and resulting from rehabilitation. Understanding the neural correlates of mobility limitations is crucial for treating individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). The aim is to summarize the neural correlates of mobility in children with CP and to describe the brain mapping methods that have been utilized in the existing literature. This systematic review was conducted based on PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO (n° CRD42021240296). The literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Embase databases. Observational studies involving participants with CP, with a mean age of up to 18 years, that utilized brain mapping techniques and correlated these with mobility outcomes were included. The results were analyzed in terms of sample characteristics, brain mapping methods, mobility measures, and main results. The risk of bias was evaluated using a checklist previously created by our research group, based on STROBE guidelines, the Cochrane Handbook, and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). A total of 15 studies comprising 313 children with CP and 229 with typical development using both static and mobile techniques met the inclusion criteria. The studies indicate that children"with'CP have increased cerebral activity and higher variability in brain reorganization during mobility activities, such as gait, quiet standing, cycling, and gross motor tasks when compared with children with typical development. Altered brain activity and reorganization underline the importance of conducting more studies to investigate the neural correlates during mobility activities in children with CP. Such information could guide neurorehabilitation strategies targeting brain neuroplasticity for functional gains.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Humanos , Niño , Adolescente , Preescolar , Encéfalo/fisiopatología , Mapeo Encefálico

RESUMEN

This study presents the results of a randomized controlled trial utilizing a 2 x 2 factorial design, comparing the effects of repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and action observation training (AOT) intervention methods on spasticity, balance function, and motor function in children with spastic cerebral palsy (SCP). The study aimed to investigate whether the combination of the two interventions produces greater improvement than either treatment alone or conventional treatment. Subject children in this study, in accordance with the random number table, were randomly divided into four groups: conventional group, rTMS group, AOT group, and combined intervention group. All the children in the four groups received conventional rehabilitation treatment, on the basis of which they were given different therapeutic programs of rehabilitation measures. The conventional group had no other treatment while the rTMS group received rTMS, the AOT group received AOT and the combined intervention group was given a combined intervention of rTMS and AOT. They were trained five days per week for 12 weeks. Changes in scores of spasticity, balance function, walking ability, and gross motor function were assessed at the onset of the training program and upon completion of 12 weeks of treatment. A total of 64 Children with SCP completed the study, and their results were analyzed. The total gross motor function efficiency of 87.50% in the experimental group was significantly higher than that of 25.00% in the conventional group, 62.50% in the rTMS group, and 68.75% in the AOT group. The preliminary results showed that combined intervention of rTMS and AOT could effectively improve the balance function and motor function of children, and the therapeutic effect of the combined intervention was better than that of conventional treatment, rTMS or AOT alone. Finally, clinical efficacy and optimal treatment parameters of the combined intervention were clarified to provide a clinical basis for therapists to conduct lower limb function rehabilitation for children with SCP.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Estimulación Magnética Transcraneal , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/terapia , Estimulación Magnética Transcraneal/métodos , Niño , Masculino , Femenino , Espasticidad Muscular/terapia , Espasticidad Muscular/rehabilitación , Espasticidad Muscular/fisiopatología , Preescolar , Equilibrio Postural/fisiología

RESUMEN

Individuals with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP) reportedly has problems with anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) while standing. However, the use of coactivation strategy in APAs in individuals with BSCP has conflicting evidence. Hence, this study aimed to investigate postural muscle activities in BSCP during unilateral arm flexion task in which postural perturbations occur in the sagittal, frontal, and horizontal planes. We included 10 individuals with BSCP with level II on the Gross Motor Function Classification System (BSCP group) and 10 individuals without disability (control group). The participants stood on a force platform and rapidly flexed a shoulder from 0° to 90° at their own timing. Surface electromyograms were recorded from the rectus femoris, medial hamstring, tibialis anterior, and medial gastrocnemius. The control group showed a mixture of anticipatory activation and inhibition of postural muscles, whereas the BSCP group predominantly exhibited anticipatory activation with slight anticipatory inhibition. Compared with the control group, the BSCP group tended to activate the ipsilateral and contralateral postural muscles and the agonist-antagonist muscle pairs. The BSCP group had a larger disturbance in postural equilibrium, quantified by the peak displacement of center of pressure during the unilateral arm flexion, than those without disability. Individuals with BSCP may use coactivation strategy, mainly the anticipatory activation of postural muscle activity, during a task that requires a selective postural muscle activity to maintain stable posture.

Asunto(s)

Brazo , Parálisis Cerebral , Electromiografía , Músculo Esquelético , Equilibrio Postural , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Masculino , Femenino , Músculo Esquelético/fisiopatología , Equilibrio Postural/fisiología , Brazo/fisiopatología , Adulto Joven , Anticipación Psicológica/fisiología , Adulto , Posición de Pie , Movimiento/fisiología , Fenómenos Biomecánicos/fisiología , Postura/fisiología , Adolescente

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a major cause of motor and cognitive disability in children due to injury to the developing brain. Early intensive sensorimotor rehabilitation has been shown to change brain structure and reduce CP symptoms severity. We combined environmental enrichment (EE) and treadmill training (TT) to observe the effects of a one-week program of sensorimotor stimulation (EETT) in animals exposed to a CP model and explored possible mechanisms involved in the functional recovery. METHODS: Pregnant Wistar rats were injected with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS - 200 µg/kg) intraperitoneally at embryonic days 18 and 19. At P0, pups of both sexes were exposed to 20' anoxia at 37 °C. From P2 to P21, hindlimbs were restricted for 16 h/day during the dark cycle. EETT lasted from P21 to P27. TT - 15 min/day at 7 cm/s. EE - 7 days in enriched cages with sensorimotor stimulus. Functional 3D kinematic gait analysis and locomotion were analyzed. At P28, brains were collected for ex-vivo MRI and histological assessment. Neurotrophins and key proteins involved in CNS function were assessed by western blotting. RESULTS: CP model caused gross and skilled locomotor disruption and altered CNS neurochemistry. EETT reversed locomotor dysfunction with minor effects over gait kinematics. EETT also decreased brain inflammation and glial activation, preserved myelination, upregulated BDNF signaling and modulated the expression of proteins involved in excitatory synaptic function in the brain and spinal cord. CONCLUSIONS: Using this translational approach based on intensive sensorimotor rehabilitation, we highlight pathways engaged in the early developmental processes improving neurological recovery observed in CP.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Locomoción , Plasticidad Neuronal , Ratas Wistar , Animales , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Plasticidad Neuronal/fisiología , Ratas , Femenino , Locomoción/fisiología , Masculino , Encéfalo/metabolismo , Encéfalo/fisiopatología , Embarazo , Recuperación de la Función/fisiología , Encefalitis/metabolismo , Encefalitis/fisiopatología , Encefalitis/rehabilitación , Marcha/fisiología , Condicionamiento Físico Animal/fisiología , Condicionamiento Físico Animal/métodos , Enfermedades Neuroinflamatorias/metabolismo , Enfermedades Neuroinflamatorias/fisiopatología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Physical activity and sedentary behaviour are usually described using daily volume indicators. However, for young children (6-12 years) and specifically those with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, exploration of how physical behaviours are accumulated may provide valuable insight for behaviour change intervention planning. RESEARCH QUESTION: How are physical activity and sedentary behaviour accumulated by 6-12 year old children with Cerebral Palsy and is this different from their typically developing peers? METHODS: A cross-sectional study of a convenience sample of ambulatory children with CP (CP) and typically developing (TD) children, 6-12 years, was recruited. Children wore a thigh worn activity monitor (activPAL4) during typical daily activities. Overall volume of daily sedentary, upright and stepping time was characterised as well as how this was accumulated in bouts of activity. RESULTS: There were no differences (p<0.05) in either volume or accumulation measures of physical behaviours between TD (n=14, 8.2±1.8 years) and children with CP (n=15, 8.6±1.4 years). However, there was wide variation in activity accumulation patterns between individuals. The mean proportion of daily time in each physical behaviour, accumulated in bouts above set times was: Upright time: bouts >5 mins 46 % TD & CP, bouts >20 mins 9 % TD & CP; Stepping time: bouts >0.5 mins 50 % TD, 45 % CP, bouts >2 mins 10 % TD, 9 % CP; Sedentary time: bouts >5 mins 77 % TD, 76 % CP, bouts >30 mins 26 % TD, 29 % CP. SIGNIFICANCE: Young children with CP aged 6-12 years do not appear to have different physical behaviours to their TD peers. However, for individuals, descriptors of accumulation of physical activity and sedentary behaviour bouts provides additional information over and above volume measures, giving insight into behaviour which may be used to inform intervention planning.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Ejercicio Físico , Conducta Sedentaria , Humanos , Niño , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Masculino , Femenino , Estudios Transversales , Ejercicio Físico/fisiología , Estudios de Casos y Controles

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: To determine whether the application of continuous lateral trunk support forces during walking would improve trunk postural control and improve gait performance in children with CP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nineteen children with spastic CP participated in this study (8 boys; mean age 10.6 ± 3.4 years old). Fourteen of them were tested in the following sessions: 1) walking on a treadmill without force for 1-min (baseline), 2) with lateral trunk support force for 7-min (adaptation), and 3) without force for 1-min (post-adaptation). Overground walking pre/post treadmill walking. Five of them were tested using a similar protocol but without trunk support force (i.e., control). RESULTS: Participants from the experimental group showed enhancement in gait phase dependent muscle activation of rectus abdominis in late adaptation period compared to baseline (P = 0.005), which was retained during the post-adaptation period (P = 0.036), reduced variability of the peak trunk oblique angle during the late post-adaptation period (P = 0.023), and increased overground walking speed after treadmill walking (P = 0.032). Participants from the control group showed modest changes in kinematics and EMG during treadmill and overground walking performance. These results suggest that applying continuous lateral trunk support during walking is likely to induce learning of improved trunk postural control in children with CP, which may partially transfer to overground walking, although we do not have a firm conclusion due to the small sample size in the control group.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Electromiografía , Equilibrio Postural , Torso , Caminata , Humanos , Masculino , Niño , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Proyectos Piloto , Femenino , Caminata/fisiología , Equilibrio Postural/fisiología , Fenómenos Biomecánicos/fisiología , Torso/fisiopatología , Torso/fisiología , Adolescente , Adaptación Fisiológica/fisiología , Marcha/fisiología , Postura/fisiología , Prueba de Esfuerzo , Músculo Esquelético/fisiopatología

RESUMEN

Individuals with diminished walking performance caused by neuromuscular impairments often lack plantar flexion muscle activity. Robotic devices have been developed to address these issues and increase walking performance. While these devices have shown promise in their ability to increase musculature engagement of the lower limbs when used on a treadmill, most have not been developed or validated for overground walking and community use. Overground walking may limit the effectiveness of robotic devices due to differences in gait characteristics between walking terrains and reduced user engagement. The purpose of this study was to validate our multimodal robotic gait training system for overground walking in individuals with neuromuscular gait impairments. This untethered wearable robotic device can provide an ankle resistive torque proportional to the users' biological ankle torque. The device can also provide audio biofeedback based on users' plantar pressure intending to increase ankle power and muscle activity of the plantar flexors. Seven individuals with cerebral palsy participated. Participants walked overground and on a treadmill with our robotic gait training system in a single testing session. Results showed all seven participants to increase peak plantar flexor muscle activity, 10.3% on average, when walking with the gait trainer overground compared to treadmill. When compared to typical baseline overground walking, overground gait trainer use caused individuals to have slightly less knee joint excursion (3°) and moderately more ankle joint excursion (7°). This work supports our vision of using the wearable robotic device as a gait aid and rehabilitation tool in the home and community settings.

Asunto(s)

Robótica , Caminata , Humanos , Masculino , Caminata/fisiología , Femenino , Robótica/instrumentación , Robótica/métodos , Biorretroalimentación Psicológica/métodos , Biorretroalimentación Psicológica/instrumentación , Adulto , Articulación del Tobillo/fisiología , Articulación del Tobillo/fisiopatología , Marcha/fisiología , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Músculo Esquelético/fisiología , Músculo Esquelético/fisiopatología , Tobillo/fisiología , Adolescente , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/rehabilitación , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/fisiopatología , Adulto Joven , Fenómenos Biomecánicos , Prueba de Esfuerzo/métodos

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Cerebral palsy is the most frequent condition affecting the central nervous system and causing large disability. OBJECTIVE: To determine the impact of touch screen tablet upon fine motor functions in children with hemiparesis. METHOD: This was a randomized controlled trial involving 60 children, ranging in age from 5 to 7 years old, randomized into two groups: intervention or control group (30 children per group). Both groups were given 12 consecutive weeks of designed fine motor tasks. Additionally, for thirty minutes, the intervention group was given a fine motor exercise program on a touch screen tablet. Upper limb function, finger dexterity and pinch strength were measured pre and post the recommended treatment program using the quality of upper extremity skill test (QUEST), Nine-Hole Peg Test and Jamar hydraulic pinch gauge, respectively. RESULTS: All outcome measures were equivalent between intervention groups at admission (P > 0.05). Significant improvements were found in all assessed variables within the two groups. Meanwhile, the intervention group had significantly higher improvements (P < 0.05) in finger dexterity, pinch strength, and upper limb function when compared with the control groups. CONCLUSION: Including a touch screen smart tablet application with a specially designed fine motor program is an effective method that helps children with U-CP perform more effectively with their fine motor skills.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Computadoras de Mano , Destreza Motora , Paresia , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Niño , Masculino , Femenino , Preescolar , Paresia/rehabilitación , Paresia/fisiopatología , Paresia/etiología , Destreza Motora/fisiología , Resultado del Tratamiento , Terapia por Ejercicio/métodos , Extremidad Superior/fisiopatología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Gait training programs are commonly used to improve gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP). OBJECTIVE: To compared the effects of robotic-gait assistant training (RAGT) and conventional body weight support treadmill training (CBWSTT) on gait parameters among ambulatory children with CP. METHODS: The study is a randomized controlled trial of 36 children (17 in the RAGT group and 19 in the CBWSTT group) aged 5 to 14. Gait training involved 30-to 35-minute sessions three times per week over eight weeks. RESULTS: Mixed ANCOVA showed no main effect of time or group on all gait parameters (P > .05). Gross motor function measure dimensions D (GMFM D) and E (GMFM E) show main effects on step width. Stride length, step length, speed, swing phase, and double support phase interacted with GMFM D and E. There was a negative correlation between motor function level and the change from baseline. Children with lower motor function show a greater change from baseline. CONCLUSION: There were no significant differences between CBWSTT and RAGT for children with CP; however, with gait training interventions, the level of motor function should be considered.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Terapia por Ejercicio , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha , Robótica , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Niño , Masculino , Femenino , Robótica/métodos , Adolescente , Preescolar , Terapia por Ejercicio/métodos , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/rehabilitación , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/etiología , Marcha/fisiología , Resultado del Tratamiento

RESUMEN

This study aimed to investigate how electromyography (EMG) cluster analysis of the rectus femoris (RF) could help to better interpret gait analysis in patients with cerebral palsy (CP). The retrospective gait data of CP patients were categorized into two groups: initial examination (E1, 881 patients) and subsequent examination (E2, 377 patients). Envelope-formatted EMG data of RF were collected. Using PCA and a combined PSO-K-means algorithm, main clusters were identified. Patients were further classified into crouch, jump, recurvatum, stiff and mild gait for detailed analysis. The clusters (labels) were characterized by a significant peak EMG activity during mid-swing (L1), prolonged EMG activity during stance (L2), and a peak EMG activity during loading response (L3). Notably, L2 contained 76% and 92% of all crouch patients at E1 and E2, respectively. Comparing patients with a crouch gait pattern in L2-E1 and L2-E2, two subgroups emerged: patients with persistent crouch (G1) and patients showing improvement at E2 (G2). The minimum activity of RF during 20-45% of the gait was significantly higher (p = 0.025) in G1 than in G2. A greater chance of improvement from crouch gait might be associated with lower RF activity during the stance phase. Using our findings, we could potentially establish an approach to improve clinical decision-making regarding treatment of patients with CP.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Electromiografía , Músculo Cuádriceps , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/complicaciones , Electromiografía/métodos , Masculino , Femenino , Niño , Músculo Cuádriceps/fisiopatología , Análisis por Conglomerados , Estudios Retrospectivos , Marcha/fisiología , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/fisiopatología , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/etiología , Adolescente , Preescolar , Adulto , Análisis de la Marcha/métodos , Adulto Joven

Asunto(s)

Cinta Atlética , Parálisis Cerebral , Marcha , Extremidad Inferior , Equilibrio Postural , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/terapia , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Equilibrio Postural/fisiología , Niño , Extremidad Inferior/fisiopatología , Marcha/fisiología , Resultado del Tratamiento

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) exhibit motor impairments predominantly on one side of the body, while also having ipsilesional and bilateral impairments. These impairments are known to persist through adulthood, but their extent have not been described in adults with CP. This study's aim is to characterize bilateral and unilateral upper limbs impairments in adults with CP. METHODS: Nineteen adults with CP (34.3 years old ± 11.5) performed three robotic assessments in the Kinarm Exoskeleton Lab, including two bilateral tasks (Object Hit [asymmetric independent goals task] and Ball on Bar [symmetric common goal task]) and one unilateral task (Visually Guided Reaching, performed with the more affected arm [MA] and less affected arm [LA]). Individual results were compared to sex, age and handedness matched normative data, describing the proportion of participants exhibiting impairments in each task-specific variable (e.g., Hand speed), each performance category (e.g., Feedforward control) and in global task performance. Associations were assessed using Spearman correlation coefficients between: 1: the results of the MA and LA of each limb in the unilateral task; and 2: the results of each limb in the unilateral vs. the bilateral tasks. RESULTS: The majority of participants exhibited impairments in bilateral tasks (84%). The bilateral performance categories (i.e., Bimanual) identifying bilateral coordination impairments were impaired in the majority of participants (Object Hit: 57.8%; Ball on Bar: 31.6%). Most of the participants were impaired when performing a unilateral task with their MA arm (63%) and a smaller proportion with their LA arm (31%). The Feedforward control was the unilateral performance category showing the highest proportion of impaired participants while displaying the strongest relationship between the MA and LA arms impairments (rs = 0.93). Feedback control was the unilateral performance category most often associated with impairments in bilateral tasks (6 out of 8 performance categories). CONCLUSIONS: Adults with CP experienced more impairment in bilateral tasks while still having substantial impairments in unilateral tasks. They frequently display Feedforward control impairments combined with a higher reliance on Feedback control during both bilateral and unilateral tasks, leading to poorer motor performance.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Robótica , Extremidad Superior , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Parálisis Cerebral/complicaciones , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto , Extremidad Superior/fisiopatología , Robótica/instrumentación , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto Joven , Desempeño Psicomotor/fisiología , Dispositivo Exoesqueleto , Lateralidad Funcional/fisiología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly used by children with cerebral palsy (CP), but traditional solutions are unable to address the heterogeneity and evolving needs amongst children with CP. One key limitation lies in the inability of current passive devices to customize the torque-angle relationship, which is essential to adapt the support to the specific individual needs. Powered alternatives can provide customized behavior, but often face challenges with reliability, weight, and cost. Overall, clinicians find certain barriers that hinder their prescription. In recent work, the Variable Stiffness Orthosis (VSO) was developed, enabling stiffness customization without the need for motors or sophisticated control. METHODS: This work evaluates a pediatric version of the VSO (inGAIT-VSO) by investigating its impact on the walking performance of children with CP and its potential to be used as a tool for assessing the effect of variable stiffness on pathological gait. Data was collected for three typical developing (TD) children and six pediatric participants with CP over two sessions involving walking/balance tasks and questionnaires. RESULTS: The sensors of the inGAIT-VSO provided useful information to assess the impact of the device. Increasing the stiffness of the inGAIT-VSO significantly reduced participants' dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Despite reduced range of motion, the peak restoring torque increased with stiffness. Overall the participants' gait pattern was altered by reducing crouch gait, preventing drop-foot and supporting body weight. Participants with CP exhibited significantly lower (p < 0.05) physiological cost when walking with the inGAIT-VSO compared to normal condition (own AFO or shoes only). Generally, the device did not impair walking and balance of the participants compared to normal conditions. According to the questionnaire results, the inGAIT-VSO was easy to use and participants reported positive experiences. CONCLUSION: The inGAIT-VSO stiffnesses significantly affected participants' plantarflexion and dorsiflexion and yielded objective data regarding walking performance in pathological gait (e.g. ankle angle, exerted torque and restored assistive energy). These effects were captured by the sensors integrated in the device without using external equipment. The inGAIT-VSO shows promise for customizing AFO stiffness and aiding clinicians in selecting a personalized stiffness based on objective metrics.

Asunto(s)

Tobillo , Parálisis Cerebral , Ortesis del Pié , Caminata , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Niño , Masculino , Caminata/fisiología , Femenino , Tobillo/fisiopatología , Tobillo/fisiología , Adolescente , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/rehabilitación , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/etiología , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/fisiopatología , Diseño de Equipo , Fenómenos Biomecánicos , Equilibrio Postural/fisiología , Pie/fisiopatología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Hinged ankle foot orthoses (HAFO) are commonly prescribed for children with cerebral palsy (CP) to improve their ambulatory function. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of vibration-HAFO with that of the same orthosis without vibration on gait, function, and spasticity in hemiplegic CP children. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized Control Trial Design (a pilot study). METHODS: Twenty-three children with hemiplegic CP participated in this study. The control group (n = 12) used HAFO, and the intervention group (n = 11) used vibration-HAFO for four weeks. Pre-post three-dimensional gait analysis was done. Calf muscle spasticity and function were also measured. RESULTS: Results showed significant differences between the two groups in the one-minute walking test (p = 0.023) and spasticity (after intervention [p = 0.022], after follow-up [p = 0.020]). Also, significant differences were detected between the two groups in the step width (p = 0.042), maximum hip abduction (p = 0.008), stance maximum dorsiflexion (p = 0.036) and mean pelvic tilt (p = 0.004) in the barefoot condition. Gait cycle time (p = 0.005), maximum hip abduction (p = 0.042), and cadence (p = 0.001) were different between groups in the braced condition. We couldn't find any significant within and between groups differences in knee kinematic parameters. The mean time of using vibration was 16.83 minutes per day. CONCLUSIONS: The vibration-hinged AFO is feasible, safe, and acceptable for children with hemiplegic CP to be integrated into practice. Temporospatial and clinical parameters, especially spasticity, were improved. There were slight trends toward improvement in pelvic and knee kinematics. Vibration-HAFO is of benefit to ambulatory CP children with mild and moderate spasticity. It improved the walking capacity of the children.

Asunto(s)

Parálisis Cerebral , Ortesis del Pié , Espasticidad Muscular , Vibración , Humanos , Parálisis Cerebral/complicaciones , Parálisis Cerebral/rehabilitación , Parálisis Cerebral/fisiopatología , Niño , Masculino , Espasticidad Muscular/etiología , Espasticidad Muscular/rehabilitación , Espasticidad Muscular/terapia , Espasticidad Muscular/fisiopatología , Femenino , Vibración/uso terapéutico , Proyectos Piloto , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/rehabilitación , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/etiología , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/fisiopatología , Trastornos Neurológicos de la Marcha/terapia , Marcha/fisiología , Diseño de Equipo , Hemiplejía/rehabilitación , Hemiplejía/etiología , Hemiplejía/fisiopatología , Resultado del Tratamiento , Adolescente , Articulación del Tobillo/fisiopatología , Fenómenos Biomecánicos