DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 2 to 3 per 1,000 live births globally. It is characterized by movement, muscle tone, and posture impairments, leading to varying degrees of physical disability. Neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) has emerged as a promising approach to improve motor function, particularly gait and activities of daily living (ADL) in children with CP. Task-oriented training based on NDT principles aims to facilitate normal movement patterns and enhance functional mobility.
Objective: This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of task-oriented training based on neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) principles on gait and functional activities of daily living in children with cerebral palsy.
Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design was employed. Ten children with spastic cerebral palsy, aged 6 to 12 years, participated in an 6-Months intervention. The experimental group received task-oriented training based on NDT, focusing on balance, coordination, weight shifting, and functional mobility. The control group received conventional physiotherapy, including stretching, range of motion (ROM) exercises, and strengthening activities. Outcome measures included gait parameters assessed using a Gait Analysis System and functional independence measured by the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Paired t-tests were used to evaluate changes between pre- and post-intervention.
Results: Significant improvements were observed in the experimental group across all gait parameters, including gait speed (p = 0.02), step length (p = 0.01), and cadence (p = 0.03), with post-intervention increases in step length (from 35.2 cm to 41.6 cm) and gait speed (from 0.72 m/s to 0.85 m/s). Functional mobility scores, including the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) and PEDI, also significantly improved in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the experimental group showed better adherence to the intervention, including higher attendance and exercise compliance.
Conclusion: Task-oriented training based on neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) principles significantly improves gait parameters and functional independence in children with cerebral palsy compared to conventional physiotherapy. These findings highlight the value of integrating task-specific approaches into rehabilitation programs for children with CP. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to confirm these results