Paediatrics
Conditions
Interventions
The conventional physiotherapy program
Aerobic Exercises
Sponsors
Faculty of Physical Therapy. Cairo University
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Inclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: Forty children diagnosed as hemiparetic CP were recruited from the outpatient clinic, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University according to the following criteria that align with previous aerobic training trials in CP that emphasized safety, ambulatory status, and ability to complete exercise assessments. (Verschuren et al 2016) Inclusion Criteria • Their age ranged from 7–12 years. • Their GMFCS levels were I–II (ambulant without assistive devices). • They can follow simple verbal instructions and complete treadmill/field assessments. • Have stable medical condition with no orthopedic surgery or botulinum toxin injections within the past 6 months.
Exclusion criteria
Exclusion criteria: • Severe cognitive impairment that may interfere with test compliance. • Epilepsy, cardiopulmonary, or metabolic disease contraindicating exercise. • Orthopedic deformities or musculoskeletal injuries limiting safe participation. • Participation in another structured exercise or rehabilitation research trial during the study period.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| 1. Energy Expenditure Index (EEI) EEI was calculated as the ratio of walking heart rate minus resting heart rate to walking speed (beats/m), obtained during a standardized 6-minute submaximal treadmill walk. This measure has been validated for assessing walking economy in children with CP. (García et al 2016) | — |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| 2. Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO2 max) VO2 max was measured using a metabolic cart (breath-by-breath gas analysis) during a graded treadmill exercise test. The modified Balke protocol adapted for children with CP was used, which is feasible and reliable in this population. Criteria for VO2 max attainment included volitional fatigue, plateau in VO2 despite workload increase, respiratory exchange ratio =1.0, and peak HR =85% of age-predicted maximum. (Marinov et al 2003).;3. Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) The 6MWT was performed according to the American Thoracic Society guidelines on a 30-meter indoor track. Distance walked was recorded in meters. The 6MWT has demonstrated strong reliability and validity in ambulant children with CP. (Romeo et al 2022) | — |
Countries
Egypt
Contacts
Public ContactShereen Said
Lecturer in Department of Basic Science. Faculty of Physical Therap. MUST.
Outcome results
None listed