Combined effects of myofeedback and isokinetic training on hand function in spastic hemiplegic children

Abstract

Background and purpose: Hand function is necessary for activities of daily life. Hemiplegic cerebral palsied children who constitute a large portion in our country show evidence of defective hand function. So, it is worth finding a solution for such a problem. This study was conducted to determine the combined effects of myofeedback and isokinetic training on hand function in spastic hemiplegic children.
Subjects and methods: Thirty spastic hemiplegic children from both sexes ranging in age from five to seven years represented the sample of the study. The degree of spasticity ranged from 1 to 1+ according to the Modified Ashworth Scale. The affected upper limb was free from any structural deformities; however, children demonstrated variable degrees of tightness. They were assigned randomly into two groups of equal number (A and B). Evaluation was conducted for each child of the two groups before and after six months of treatment. The strength of the triceps brachii muscle was evaluated by using the biodex isokinetic dynamometer. The range of motion of wrist extension was evaluated by using digital electro-goniometer. Both groups received a designed physical therapy program with isokinetic training for the triceps brachii muscle for 60 min, in addition group B received myofeedback training.
Results: The post treatment results revealed significant improvement in the measured variables of both groups when comparing their pre and post treatment mean values, while significant results were observed in favor of group B when comparing the post treatment results of the two groups.
Conclusions: Myofeedback training combined with isokinetic training is an excellent supplement for improving hand function in spastic hemiplegic children.

Keywords: Hemiplegic children; Hand function; Isokinetic training; Myofeedback