The Effects of Progressive Resistance Training on Muscular Strength in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Critically Appraised Topic

Clinical Scenario: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a brain injury occurring during pregnancy, birth, or shortly after birth that causes stiff muscles and uncontrolled reflexes. There are currently no cures for CP, however, many therapies can aid in muscle stretching, yet disregard muscle strengthening and the prevention of atrophy. Focused Clinical Question: What are the effects of progressive resistance training on muscular strength and mobility in children with cerebral palsy? Summary of Key Findings: Progressive resistance training is best for preventing muscle atrophy and weakness due to skeletal muscle being most adaptive to mechanical load. One of the high-quality studies showed how children who participated in high-intensity interval training were able to improve in muscle power tests. The two lesser-quality studies showed that muscular strength greatly improved in response to progressive resistance training. Clinical Bottom Line: Evidence exists to support the implementation of progressive resistance training for children with CP will increase their isometric muscle strength and their functional muscle strength, resulting in overall improvement in mobility and motor function. Strength of Recommendation: Grade B evidence exists that progressive strength training is beneficial for children with CP to improve in mobility and motor function. Key Words: Cerebral Palsy, children, progressive resistance training, high intensity circuit training, motor function, mobility, functional strength, isometric strength