Whole-body Vibration for Children With Cerebral Palsy Undergoing Serial Casting

Summary

Children with cerebral palsy have increased muscle tone which often results in decreased active and passive movement at the ankle. While many management strategies exist (including passive stretching, WBV, serial casting, Botox, and surgical tendon lengthening), the utilization of WBV in combination with active exercises and serial casting has not been previously explored. Serial casting is the repeated application of a fiberglass cast (such as that applied to manage stable fractures) on a scheduled (usually weekly basis) to gradually increase the range of motion at a specific joint. It is theorized that combining previously established standard of care practices may result in more rapid clinical change, and hence reduce the need for prolonged intervention; ultimately reducing healthcare costs.

Eligibility

Age range

3–17 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

No

Interventions

• Other
  Exercise

  2 minutes each exercise with 30 sec break - 4 exercises prior to serial casting

• Other
  Whole-Body Vibration

  WBV prior to serial casting

• Other
  Serial Casting

  Serial Casting as provided by standard of care

Location