The effectiveness of partial body weight support treadmill training on walking in people with cerebral palsy : A systematic review

Chrysoula Xanthi; Magdalini Stamelaki; Zacharias Dimitriadis; George Paras; Thomas Besios

doi:10.53730/ijhs.v8n2.14912

Authors

Xanthi Chrysoula
xrisa.xnth@yahoo.com
University of Thessaly, Human Performance & Rehabilitation Laboratory, Lamia, Greece
Stamelaki Magdalini University of Thessaly, Human Performance & Rehabilitation Laboratory, Lamia, Greece
Dimitriadis Zacharias University of Thessaly, Lamia, Greece
Paras Georgios University of Thessaly, Human Performance & Rehabilitation Laboratory, Lamia, Greece
Besios Thomas University of Thessaly, Human Performance & Rehabilitation Laboratory, Lamia, Greece

Keywords:

cerebral palsy, gait training, partial body weight support, physiotherapy, walking

Abstract

Background: People with Cerebral Palsy (CP) face daily motor, sensory, and cognitive impairments that significantly impact their quality of life. This systematic review aimed to investigate RCTs regarding the effectiveness of treadmill walking with partial body weight support (PBWSTT) in individuals with CP. Methods: A search was performed in PubMed, Scopus and Research Gate. The study selection process was conducted by two separate reviewers. The quality of the final studies included in the systematic review was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Out of the 673 studies initially identified, 6 studies were included. The results showed that (PBWSTT) leads to an increase in scores on the GMFM scale, as well as improvement in walking pattern, speed, endurance, and rhythm. The method of PBWSTT in comparison to conventional physiοtherapy did not show better results, as the included studies in this review showed conflicting results. Conclusion: The effect of therapeutic exercise with partial body weight support has a positive impact on improving the gross motor function of patients with Cerebral Palsy. However, the question of whether PBWSTT is more effective than conventional physiotherapy and over-ground walking exercise cannot be conclusively answered yet, highlighting the importance of conducting further research in this field.

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