Laboratory-instrumental diagnostics and individual rehabilitation program for children with cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most frequent causes of childhood disability in the world and in Ukraine. CP affects posture, balance, and the ability to move, which leads to varying degrees of impaired activity and functioning in children. Reducing the risk of secondary complications in children with CP is possible with early diagnosis and rehabilitation at an early age. The early intervention service (EI), which provides support and rehabilitation according to an individual program for children with cerebral palsy from birth to 4 years, contributes to improving the functional capabilities of the child. Aim - to carry out a comparative analysis of disorders in children aged 4 to 14 years with spastic CP, depending on whether they underwent an individual rehabilitation program within the framework of the EI service from birth to 4 years of age. Materials and methods. The study involved 105 children aged 4-14 years, divided into two groups: the Group A (43 children who received EI) and the Group B (62 children who did not). The level of violations in children was assessed using standardized international scales and laboratory-instrumental methods. Results. Children in the Group A had less pronounced orthopedic complications (scoliosis, hip dislocations, etc.). Children in the Group A had higher vitamin D levels (24.98±1.164 ng/ml versus 20.85±1.194 ng/ml). Electrocardiogram and complete blood count parameters did not reveal statistically significant differences between the groups. Conclusions. EI service from birth to 4 years with the use of an individual rehabilitation program has a positive effect on the prevention of secondary complications in children with CP, contributing to the improvement of activities, functioning and participation of children with CP. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of all participating institutions. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.