Comparing Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Task-Oriented Training to Improve Arm Function in Children With Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy Aged 6 to 12

What this Trial Is About

Children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy often face difficulties with upper limb movement, coordination, and functional hand use, which impacts their independence in daily life. This research aims to compare three rehabilitation approaches Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation PNF alone, Task-Oriented Training TOT alone, and a combination of both. The study involves children aged 6 to 12 years with mild to moderate motor impairment classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System GMFCS levels I to III. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups receiving supervised physiotherapy sessions lasting 45 minutes, three times per week for six weeks. The PNF group will perform specific diagonal upper limb movements, the TOT group will practice functional activities like reaching and grasping, and the combined group will receive both interventions within each session. The goal is to assess which approach best improves upper extremity function. Throughout the study, assessments will be conducted at the start, mid-point 3 weeks, and end 6 weeks using tools such as the Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function MA2 for movement quality, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Functional Skills Scale PEDI-FSS for independence in daily activities, and goniometric measurements to evaluate joint range of motion. These evaluations will help determine changes in upper limb function and independence resulting from the different rehabilitation methods.

Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Task-Oriented Training on Upper Extremity Function in Children With Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy