Özet:

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate that if upper limb visual feedback training added to the usual therapy was effective on upper limb functions in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: Thirty-eight children with cerebral palsy (4-18 years) participated in the study. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups. Study group (n=19, mean age 8.50±3.40, 53% female) received visual feedback training plus usual therapy twice a week for 8 weeks, 16 sessions in total, while control group (n=19, mean age 10.60±3.80, 42% female) received only usual therapy. The participants’ Gross Motor Function Classification System levels were between I-III and spasticity levels were between ‘0’ to ‘1+’ according to Modified Ashworth Scale. Upper limb range of motion (ROM), grip and pinch strength, hand skills (Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT)), and functional abilities (Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ)) were assessed before and after treatment. Results: The change amount in shoulder flexion (p=0.004) and abduction (p=0.01), supination (p=0.019) and wrist flexion (p=0.004) and extension (p=0.00) ROM values; bilateral MMDT scores (p=0.003) were statistically significantly improved in study group compared to control group. Conclusion: Adding visual feedback training to the usual therapy program of children with cerebral palsy was found to be effective in some outcome measurements such as upper limb ROM and hand skills. In the long-term rehabilitation process, this new training method may be an alternative additive option for children, families, and physiotherapists.

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