Article

In children with cerebral palsy (CP), the never-learned-to-use (NLTU)
effect and underutilization suppress the normal development of cortical
plasticity in the paretic limb, which further inhibits its functional use and
increases associated muscle weakness. OBJECTIVE: To highlight the effects of a
novel comprehensive hand repetitive intensive strengthening training system on
neuroplastic changes associated with upper extremity (UE) muscle strength and
motor performance in children with spastic hemiplegic CP. METHOD: Two children
with spastic hemiplegic CP were recruited. Intervention with the comprehensive
hand repetitive intensive strengthening training system was provided for 60 min a
day, three times a week, for 10 weeks. Neuroplastic changes, muscle size,
strength, and associated motor function were measured using functional magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound imaging, and standardized motor tests,
respectively. RESULTS: The functional MRI data showed that the comprehensive hand
repetitive intensive strengthening training intervention produced measurable
neuroplastic changes in the neural substrates associated with motor control and
learning. These neuroplastic changes were associated with increased muscle size,
strength and motor function. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide compelling
evidence of neuroplastic changes and associated improvements in muscle size and
motor function following innovative upper extremity strengthening exercise.

Langue : ANGLAIS