Core Stability Exercises Improve Hand Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Did you know that core stability exercises can improve hand functions in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy? Recent research examined the effectiveness of core stability exercises on hand functions in 52 children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (ages 6-8 years old).
Methodology
The children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy were randomly assigned to two (control and study) groups. The control group participated in the selected physica; therapy exercises, and the study group received the same selected physical therapy exercise program and core stability exercises.
To evaluate the effectiveness of the core stability exercises the following assessments were complete pre and post 12 weeks of the intervention:
- Time motor performance – Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test
- gross manual dexterity – Box and Block Test
- upper extremity skills – Quality Upper Extremity Skill Test
Results of the Study: Core Stability Exercises Improve Hand Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Following data analysis, the researchers reported that there were significant improvements in both groups by comparing the mean values of all measured variables before and after treatment.
Significant differences between the control and study groups with respect to all measured variables when comparing the post-treatment outcomes were reported.
The researchers concluded that core stability exercises can be an effective intervention that may improve hand functions in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Reference: Abd-Elfattah, H. M., & Aly, S. M. (2021). Effect of Core Stability Exercises on Hand Functions in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy. Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, 45(1), 71.
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