Constraint-induced Movement Therapy Combined With Functional Electrical Stimulation in Children With Cerebral Palsy
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) combined with Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) versus CIMT alone in improving upper limb function, reducing spasticity, and enhancing functional independence in children with cerebral palsy (CP). A total of 46 children aged 3 to 15 years with spastic or dyskinetic cerebral palsy will be recruited from rehabilitation centers and hospitals in Sukkur, Pakistan. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group A will receive CIMT combined with FES, while Group B will receive CIMT alone. Both groups will undergo supervised therapy sessions five times per week for six weeks. Outcomes will be assessed before and after treatment using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function (MUUL), and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). The study aims to determine whether combining FES with CIMT provides greater improvements in motor recovery and daily functional performance in children with CP.
• Children aged 3 to 15 years, including both male and female population. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), confirmed by medical assessment and clinical evaluation.
• Moderate to severe impairment in upper limb function (as determined by a relevant motor function assessment scale, e.g., the Modified Ashworth Scale.
• Children with spastic and dyskinetic types of cerebral palsy. Children with cognitive ability that allows for participation in therapy, as determined by minimental status examination.
• No history of recent interventions (e.g., surgery, Botox injections) that may interfere with study participation.