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G.K.B. Kanishka1, M.D. Kumudunie Kaneshika1, H. Sandamali2
1MJF Charitable Foundation, Department of Physiotherapy, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, 2University Hospital, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Department of Physiotherapy, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Background: The prevalence of Cerebral Palsy (CP) is supposed to be higher in developing countries. It affects a child’s movement ability and quality of life. Various kinds of new treatment methods and technologies have been used to uplift the child’s ability to movements and balance. Antigravity Treadmill exercise is one of the newest techniques which is introduced by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and now is used for patients rehabilitation as well.
Purpose: By exploring the theory underpinning AlterG, the authors aim to understand whether, from the scientific point of view, it may be considered a suitable and valuable approach to improve the gait, balance, and other abnormalities in children with Cerebral Palsy.
Methods: A narrative review approach was used and included research studies published after 2015, a common literary search was performed on PubMed, MEDLINE, and PEDro.
Results: Ten articles were reviewed. Evidence from five studies revealed that the AlterG training program has the potential to be produced dynamic balance improvements in CP. Three out of ten studies revealed that AlterG training could be considered as an effective approach for improving walking ability and gait characteristics in children with cerebral palsy. Two studies showed other therapeutic effects including postural stability and improve neuromuscular abnormalities.
Conclusion(s): To this point, a great number of studies have shown the therapeutic effects of AlterG training, and as it has proven to be an effective treatment method for improving the balance and gait characteristics of children with CP.
Implications: According to the scientific background behind Antigravity Treadmill Exercise (AlterG) has given further knowledge of its potential as a physiotherapeutic treatment for children with Cerebral Palsy to improve their balance and gait.
Funding, acknowledgements: None
Keywords: Cerebral Palsy, Anti-Gravity Treadmill
Topic: Paediatrics: cerebral palsy
Did this work require ethics approval? No
Institution: N/A
Committee: N/A
Reason: this is a narrative review of literature
All authors, affiliations and abstracts have been published as submitted.
