Restricted accessResearch articleFirst published online 2020-5
The Vojta approach changes thicknesses of abdominal muscles and gait in children with spastic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial,pilot study
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have abnormal postures and gait patterns. Many physiotherapists use the Vojta approach as intervention for children with CP. However, its effects remain unclear.
OBJECTIVE:
This study aimed to investigate the effect of the Vojta approach on abdominal muscles and gait in children with spastic CP.
METHODS:
Thirteen children with spastic CP were randomly assigned to a general exercise and a Vojta approach group. The interventions were administered in 30 min sessions, 3 times a week for a total of 6 weeks. We used ultrasonography to measure the thicknesses of the abdominal muscles. The gait and foot pressure were measured by GAITRite.
RESULTS:
The Vojta approach group showed significant difference in the thicknesses of the rectus abdominis, and external oblique abdominal muscles, which are involved in trunk stability ( 0.05). There were significant differences in the step width, functional ambulation profile, swing time, stance time, and single support % of cycle as well as foot pressure distribution ( 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
The Vojta approach may be considered as an effective treatment method for improving trunk stability and gait functions of children with spastic CP.
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