Effects of circuit exercise training on trunk control and lower extremity functions in children with cerebral palsy

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of circuit exercise training on trunk and lower extremities muscle strength and functional activity in children with hemiparetic Cerebral Palsy. Fifty-four children, aged between 6-18 years were randomized two groups. Exercise group (n=25), was included 3 days a week for 10-weeks circuit exercise training. Control group (n=29), continued routine conventional physiotherapy programme. The social-demographic characteristics and clinical features of the children were recorded and Gross Motor Function Measurement (D and E), Sit to Stand Frequency, Step Up Test, Lateral Step Up Test and Time up & go test was used. Hand-held dynamometer was preffered to determine trunk and lower extremities muscle strength and muscle tone were assessed with Modified Ashworth Scale. Children's participation was assessed using the Canadian Occupational Performance Test (COPM) and quality of life was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. All pre-treatment evaluations were repeated after 10 weeks. As a result of our study, it was shown that circuit exercise training did not increase spasticity and increased muscle strength of trunk and lower extremities (p <0.05). Compared to the control group, statistically significant gains were recorded in the scores of gross motor function measurement, walking speed, sit to stand frequency and step up and lateral step up tests in the exercise group (p <0.05). In addition, there was a statistically significant increase in COPM and quality of life scores of children in exercise group when compared with control group (p <0.05). The results of our study showed that circuit exercise training, is effective in increasing muscle strength in children with spastic CP. In addition it was recorded that increasing muscle strength positively reflected on activity and participation. It is recommended that circuit exercise training which is created in accordance with its purpose, be added to physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs of children with CP.