Effects of arm wrestli̇ng exerci̇ses on i̇ndi̇vi̇duals wi̇th cerebral palsy

Objective: To examine the effects of exercises applied with arm wrestling techniques on individuals with Cerebral Palsy who receive physiotherapy. Method: The study was conducted with 32 volunteer individuals with cerebral palsy (CP), aged between 12 and 55, including 16 males in the control group and 16 males in the subject group. The research was carried out using 3 basic arm wrestling techniques in which the upper extremity, trunk and lower extremity muscle groups are active, in addition to the regularly applied rehabilitation protocol. A mixed CP group was created according to deformity and involvement classification. The exercises were performed on a seated arm wrestling table, accompanied by a trainer and a physiotherapist.At the beginning of the study, joint range of motion measurements of the subjects in the Control and Experimental groups were made with a goniometer. Spasticity muscle tone was measured by the Modified Ashworth Scale method. A centimeter tape measure was used to control hypertrophy volume change. Armpit traction strength was measured using a tenso dynamometer, and hand grip strength was measured using a hand dynamometer. The training protocol planned for the right and left arms was applied to the people in the experimental group once a week for 12 weeks. At the end of 12 weeks, the data obtained from the measurements were analyzed in the SPSS 23 program. Results: There is a statistically significant difference within the 99% confidence interval in the hand grip strength and armpit traction strength gains of individuals with CP (p<0.01).There was no significant difference in joint range of motion, spasticity, muscle tone and muscle volume among the participants (p>0.05).. Conclusion: It has been determined that physiological strength increases in people with cerebral palsy. It is thought that including this sport in the activities of individuals with CP will positively affect their physical characteristics and improve motor skills.