title: The effect of vibration therapy on spasticity and motor function in children with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial.
abstract: As the motor system relies heavily on deep sensory stimulation, recent studies have investigated the effect of vibration stimuli. Although research suggests a positive influence of vibration on motor performance in individuals with neurological disorders, there are very limited numbers of studies in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of sound wave vibration therapy on spasticity and motor function in children with CP. In this 3-month trial, 89 children with spastic CP were randomized to either continue their physiotherapy treatment (PT) or to receive vibration therapy twice a week in addition to their PT program. The randomization was stratified according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level to ensure similar functional ability. Children were assessed at baseline and after the 12-week intervention period. The outcomes measured were spasticity level as assessed by Modified Modified Ashworth Scale (MMAS) and gross motor function as assessed by Gross Motor Function Measurement (GMFM-88). Subgroup analysis was performed for the GMFCS. Significant differences between groups were detected for changes in spasticity level and gross motor function after the three months intervention. In conclusion, vibration therapy may decrease spasticity and improve motor performance in children with CP. The results of the present trial serve as valuable input for evidence-based treatments in paediatric neurorehabilitation.
authors: Day-care Centre for Rehabilitation Mali dom-Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia. ana@malidom.hr
authors: Ana
authors: A
authors: Katusic
authors: Sonja
authors: S
authors: Alimovic
authors: Vlatka
authors: V
authors: Mejaski-Bosnjak
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology*; D009128:Muscle Spasticity / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014732:Vibration / Q000627:therapeutic use*