To investigate the  efficacy of Physiotherapy with Reflex Stimulation (RPT) and conventional physiotherapy on motor function and quality of life of the children with spina bifida.

Eighteen children with spina bifida, aged till 12 years (mean age-6.5 years), both males and females, diagnosed and operated for spina bifida (lumbar myelomeningocele); and able to follow instructions regarding testing and training were included in the study as per the selection criteria, after their parent’s/guardian’s written informed consent. The children with neuromuscular scoliosis, hip or knee subluxation or luxation, other central nervous system disorders, medical events that could interfere with test outcomes, or cognitive impairments compromising their ability to communicate and respond to questions were excluded. These children were randomly divided into two equal groups using computer generated randomized table, group A (n=9) and group B (n=9). They were assessed for motor function and quality of life using Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) and PedsQL 4.0 Short Form (SF-15) scales respectively. Group A was administered Physiotherapy with Reflex Stimulation (RPT) whereas Group B received conventional physiotherapy. Both the groups received interventions for a total period of 8 weeks, with 1 session per week for 45 minutes. After the completion of interventions, the children of both the groups were reassessed for the outcome measures. Statistical analysis was done using paired t - test and unpaired t-test.

The study showed statistically significant difference in GMFM scores as well as PedsQL™ scores in both the groups (p0.01). Further analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the Group A and Group B for GMFM scores (p0.05) and non-statistically significant difference for PedsQL™ scores (p=0.47).

Both, Physiotherapy with Reflex Stimulation (RPT) and conventional physiotherapy improved motor function and quality of life in post-operated children with spina bifida. While both the interventions effectively enhanced motor function, RPT demonstrated a more pronounced impact on motor function in comparison to conventional physiotherapy.

Understanding the impact of RPT on motor function could lead to more targeted physiotherapy, enhancing mobility, strength, and independence in children with spina bifida. The improvement in motor function through effective physiotherapy could positively affect overall quality of life of children.