Effects of rehabilitation methods on functional outcomes in patilents with cerebral palsy

ABSTRACTObjective: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of physical therapy and rehabilitation program on functional outcomes in patients with Cerebral palsy (CP).Material and Methods: Fourty six CP patients aged between 2-14 years were recruited to study. Patients received conventional TENS on spastic muscles and NMES on antagonist of spastic muscles. After this program an individualized rehabilitation program was applied. Patients were assessed with GMFCS, GMFM-88, weeFIM, FMS, MACS. Assessments were performed at baseline, after treatment and at 1., 3., 6. months after treatment.Results: Statistically significant increase in GMFCS, GMFM-88, weeFIM, FMS score was observed between baseline and after treatment, 1., 3., 6. months after treatment. İmprovements were obtained in hand functions but these results were not statistically significant.Conclusion: Physical therapy and rehabilitation program has a significant effects on improvement of gross motor functions and daily living activities in patients with CP.