Comparing Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation to Improve Hand Dexterity in Children with Cerebral Palsy Aged 8 to 13

What this Trial Is About

Cerebral Palsy CP is a set of permanent movement and posture disorders caused by early brain disturbances, leading to difficulties with muscle tone, reflexes, and coordination. This trial compares two therapies, Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy CIMT and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation PNF, to improve hand dexterity in children with CP aged 8 to 13. The study is a randomized controlled trial conducted in a pediatric rehabilitation setting. Participants are assigned to one of two groups. The CIMT group receives therapy five days a week for two hours daily, focusing on using the affected hand while restraining the unaffected hand, with activities tailored to improve fine motor skills. The PNF group undergoes daily 1.5-hour sessions using diagonal and spiral movement patterns with a stretch-contract-relax protocol targeting muscle stiffness and coordination. Therapists guide exercises and provide feedback during both interventions. Children in the study are evaluated before and after six weeks of therapy using the Box and Block Test and the Action Research Arm Test to measure hand dexterity and motor function. Assessments include monitoring muscle spasticity and functional motor abilities. The trial lasts approximately 10 months from approval, with data analyzed using specialized software to compare the effectiveness of these two therapies in improving hand function.

Comparative Effect of CIMT and PNFTechnique on Hands Dexterity in Cerebral Palsy