Study of Diving and Aquatic Exercises to Improve Muscle Spasticity and Movement in Children Aged 2 to 5 with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to assess how diving and aquatic exercises affect muscle spasticity and motor function in children diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that impacts movement and muscle coordination during childhood. Hydrotherapy is a popular supportive treatment for children with neuromotor impairments like cerebral palsy, and it may offer advantages over land-based exercises due to waters unique properties. Participants will take part in an intensive swimming program lasting 8 weeks, with sessions of 45 minutes each in a swimming pool. This program is designed to enhance safety and functional independence in the water. The hydrotherapy sessions will be conducted in a pool with water temperature adjusted to suit the weather. During the study, children will be evaluated using the Gross Motor Function Measurement-66 eight weeks after completing the swimming program to monitor changes in motor function. The study involves careful observation of muscle spasticity and motor abilities, with no masking or blinding, and participation lasts for the duration of the 8-week program plus follow-up assessments.

Effect of Diving and Aquatic Exercises on Muscle Spasticity and Motor Function in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy