Effectiveness of static weight-bearing exercises in children with cerebral palsy.
OBJECTIVE
Physiotherapists commonly use static weight-bearing exercises in children with cerebral palsy, which are believed to stimulate antigravity muscle strength, prevent hip dislocation, improve bone mineral density, improve self-esteem, improve feeding, assist bowel and urinary functions, reduce spasticity, and improve hand function. The effectiveness of these exercises has not been thoroughly investigated. This systematic review aimed to examine the research evidence of the effectiveness of static weight-bearing exercises in children with cerebral palsy.


METHODS
Ten studies met the inclusion criteria for this review.


RESULTS
The evidence supporting the effectiveness of static weight-bearing exercises in children with cerebral palsy, except the findings of increased bone density and temporary reduction in spasticity, remains limited because of an inadequate number of studies undertaken, inadequate rigor of the research designs and the small number of subjects involved.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians should carefully consider all available evidence before making a decision regarding the potential effectiveness of static weight-bearing for the targeted outcomes.
Pin
Tamis Wai-mun
TW
School of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016474:Weight-Bearing