Article

Purpose. To investigate gross motor function and goal attainment in children with
cerebral palsy before, during and after goal-directed functional therapy (GDT),
to evaluate body functions, and explore relationships. Method. Prospective
longitudinal intervention study. Twenty-two children, uni- or bilateral CP, 1-6
years (mean: 46 months SD: 16 months), classified in GMFCS and MACS level I-IV
participated. Outcome measures were Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66),
performed at seven occasions, Goal Attainment Scale, assessments of passive range
of motion, spasticity and selective motor control (SMC). Baseline, the
GDT-intervention and the follow-up period were 12 weeks each. Results.
Improvements were demonstrated in GMFM-66 during the intervention (mean
difference: 5.07, CI: 3.8-6.4, p < 0.001). The baseline and follow-up assessments
were stable. Evaluations of ankle dorsiflexion displayed small improvement (mean
difference: 9 degrees , CI: 5-13, p < 0.001). Estimations of spasticity and SMC
did not demonstrate significant changes. Goal attainment to the expected level or
higher was achieved in 93/110 goals and further improved at the long-term
follow-up (103/110). Conclusion. Gross motor function improved during GDT, and
was maintained 12 weeks later. The goals were reached to a high extent, and the
children gradually progressed towards their goals after the end of the
intervention. The therapy did not induce any deterioration of body functions.

Langue : ANGLAIS