Schlough, K., Nawocsenski, D., Case, L. E., Nolan, K., & Wigglesworth, J. K. (2005). The effects of aerobic exercise on endurance, strength, function and self-perception in adolescents with spastic cerebral palsy: A report of three case studies. Pediatric Physical Therapy, 17, 234-250.
Abstract by: Dipti V. Kale
This case study investigates the effect of aerobic exercise intervention on various parameters of three ambulatory adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP), not only highlighting the effect on their physical condition, but also the level of functional independence and psychological impact of exercise on self-esteem, image, and competence. Using a single system (A1B1A2B2) design, with the intervention stage (B1) lasting 6 weeks, exercise sessions occurred 3 times a week using either a treadmill, stepper, or elliptical machine. Significant changes were reported in all three individuals in at least one component of the energy expenditure index, in gross motor function in at least one phase, in self-perception of his or her own appearance, and in a combined mean muscle strength. This report suggests that aerobic exercise may help increase leg strength, decrease energy required for ambulation, improve gross motor function, and improve self-perception in ambulatory adolescents with spastic CP.
To read the full abstract, go to http://www.ncpad.org/530/2471/The~Effects~of~Aerobic~Exercise~on~Endurance~~Strength~~
Function~and~Self-Perception~in~Adolescents~with~Spastic~
Cerebral~Palsy~~A~Report~of~Three~Case~Studies.