Stretching and Progressive Resistance Exercise in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of stretching and progressive resistance exercise on range of motion and muscle strength in children with cerebral palsy.

Methods: Thirty-seven children with spastic bilateral cerebral palsy and Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I to III were randomized to an intervention and a comparison group. The intervention included stretching of hamstrings and progressive resistance exercise, targeting the lower extremities for 16 weeks, followed by a 16-week maintenance program. Passive and active popliteal angle and muscle strength were evaluated at 0, 16, and 32 weeks.

Results: After 16 weeks nonsignificant improvements were found in passive, active popliteal angle and quadriceps and hamstrings strength.

Conclusion: A 16-week stretching and progressive resistance exercise program followed by a 16-week maintenance program showed nonsignificant improvements in passive, active popliteal angle and muscle strength for the intervention group.