LOCOMOTOR TREADMILL TRAINING PROGRAM USING DRIVEN GAIT ORTHOSIS VERSUS MANUAL TREADMILL THERAPY ON MOTOR OUTPUT IN SPASTIC DIPLEGIC CEREBRAL PALSY CHILDREN

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: This study intended to understand and compare the effect of loco-motor treadmill training program using robot-assisted gait therapy (Driven gait-orthosis DGO) and manual treadmill therapy on motor function in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy on their gross motor skills related to walking speed, ambulation and endurance. Subjects and Methods: Twelve spastic diplegic cerebral palsy children with the age under 5 years were participated in different ambulation training 3 times per week for 30 - 40 minutes sessions consisting of 2 different treadmill walking programs, for 10 weeks, and were tested pre and post intervention. The outcome measures included were; a timed 10-m walk test, ground walking speed, walking distance, and balance which were measured before and after treatment. Results & Conclusion: The results of this study suggests preliminary findings that children with CP under the age of 5 years can benefit their gross motor function, gait variables after intensive ambulation training using Driven gait orthotis (DGO).