Effects of constraint-induced movement therapy in adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy: a day camp model

Abstract

This study examined whether restraining the dominant hand during an intensive training period could provide a means by which to improve adolescents' hemiplegic hand function. Nine adolescents with hemiplegic CP between the ages of 13 and 18 years were enrolled at a two-week day camp, of 7 hours/day. They were restricted in the use of their dominant hand in various daily and recreational activities by wearing a glove-like splint. The basis for intervention was built upon the adolescents' own motivation, and the activities were chosen to be challenging and specifically to provide opportunities for repetition. The treatment approach used was an adapted model of Constraint Induced Movement Therapy. Assessments took place before and after intervention as well as at a 5-month follow-up. The results revealed that hand function did improve and was sustained at follow-up for dexterity, coordination and precision, and manipulative abilities. The performance of tasks that had been trained specifically showed major improvements.