Motor developmental Tui na method with comprehensive rehabilitation in children with spastic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the effects of comprehensive rehabilitation combined with motor developmental treatment (Tui na therapy) on foot and ankle dysfunction in children with spastic cerebral palsy. The main goals were to measure alterations in neuromuscular function, range of motion, and muscle tension using surface electromyography (sEMG) in conjunction with clinical assessments. METHODS: The randomized controlled trial divided 56 children with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy into control and experimental groups. The control group received standard comprehensive rehabilitation therapy, encompassing speech, occupational, and physical therapy. The experimental group received motor developing treatment alongside standard rehabilitation therapy. Both interventions were given three times per week for a duration of twelve weeks. The outcomes were Modified Ashworth Scale for evaluating muscular tone, goniometer evaluations for active ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, Ryder's test for assessing tibial torsion angle, and sEMG recordings of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS, with statistical significance defined at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Following the intervention, improved active ankle range of motion and reduced gastrocnemius strain was noted in both the groups. The experimental group had significantly better outcomes compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The sEMG measurement in the experimental group for both muscles showed enhanced activation and coordination. CONCLUSION: Motor developmental therapy targeting the feet and ankles may be optimized through comprehensive rehabilitation in children with spastic cerebral palsy. We propose an integrated approach in the management of spastic cerebral palsy, presenting a promising therapeutic approach by enhancing muscle activation, diminishing spasticity, and improving overall motor function.