Effects of physical therapy intervention for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of physical therapy intervention in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).


METHODS
Twenty-eight children aged 4-15 years were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The intervention group received five sessions of physical therapy and was instructed to perform an individualized home exercise program consisting of ankle dorsiflexion stretching, lower extremity strengthening, and aerobic exercise.


RESULTS
After 4 months children who received physical therapy intervention had significantly improved ankle dorsiflexion active range of motion and knee extension strength (P < 0.01). Differences were not found between the two groups for any of the other dependent variables.


CONCLUSIONS
Physical therapy intervention for children with ALL receiving maintenance chemotherapy improved two body functions important for normal gait. Physical therapy programs initiated earlier in treatment and with greater emphasis on endurance activities may also improve stamina and quality of life (QOL).
Marchese
Victoria G
VG
Department of Rehabilitation Services, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Tennessee, USA. victoria.marchese@stjude.org
Chiarello
Lisa A
LA
Lange
Beverly J
BJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000842:Ankle / Q000502:physiology; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D015444:Exercise; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D005684:Gait / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007717:Knee / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D010807:Physical Endurance; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D054198:Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / Q000628:therapy*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular