THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SUIT THERAPY WITH DUAL TASK EXERCISES ON GROSS MOTOR FUNCTIONS AND WALKING IN CHILDREN WITH DIPLEGIC CEREBRAL PALSY

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive condition that affects movement and development due to early brain injury. Children with CP have difficulty with posture and daily activities. Long-term therapy is essential and must keep children engaged. Suit therapy is an emerging method that helps improve posture and movement through a specialized orthotic suit. The aim of this work was to detect the effect of suit therapy with dual task training on gross motor performance and walking abilities in children with diplegic cerebral palsy (SDCP). Methods: This prospective randomized controlled study was carried out on 30 children with clinical criteria of spastic diplegia. Children were subdivided into two equal groups: group A: received suit therapy as control groups and group B: received suit therapy in addition to dual task exercises. Results: The study of 30 children with spastic diplegia showed significant post-treatment improvements in balance. Both groups were similar at baseline, except the experimental group had a higher mean weight. After treatment, the experimental group showed greater improvements in static and dynamic balance and PBS scores. Significant gains were seen in standing and Pediatric Balance Scale. (PBS) scores, but not in walking/ running/jumping. Conclusions: Dual task training significantly improved gross motor functions and walking than Suit therapy in children with SDCP, therefore, we can recommend them as basic protocols that should be included in the treatment plan for diplegic children