This study investigated the effects of Pilates exercises on lower limb muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life in children with burn injuries. In a twelve-week randomized clinical trial involving 60 children, those who received Pilates exercises in addition to traditional physical therapy showed significant improvements in muscle strength, functional capacity, and overall quality of life compared to those who received traditional therapy alone. The findings suggest that incorporating Pilates exercises into rehabilitation programs may enhance outcomes for children recovering from burn injuries.
This research focused on examining the impact of Pilates exercises on lower limb muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life in children recuperating from burn injuries. The study, conducted as a twelve-week randomized clinical trial with 60 participants, found notable improvements in various aspects for the group receiving Pilates exercises alongside traditional physical therapy. Specifically, enhancements in muscle strength (including hip flexors, extensors, abductors, and more), functional capacity, and overall quality of life scores were statistically significant in the Pilates group compared to those undergoing traditional therapy alone. This suggests a positive influence of Pilates exercises on the rehabilitation of children with lower limb burns. The investigation delved into the potential benefits of Pilates exercises, emphasizing their role in augmenting muscle strength, functional capacity, and overall well-being. The study participants, aged 10 to 15 years and recovering from lower limb burns, were randomly assigned to either a control group receiving only traditional physical therapy or a Pilates group combining Pilates exercises with traditional therapy. The outcomes demonstrated significant differences favoring the Pilates group, not only in terms of lower limb muscle strength but also functional capacity, as assessed by the 6-minute walk test, and overall quality of life scores measured through the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. The findings suggest that incorporating Pilates into rehabilitation programs for pediatric burn survivors can contribute positively to physical and functional recovery, potentially improving their overall quality of life.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
60
participants underwent a 12-week intervention involving three Pilates sessions per week. The Pilates exercises comprised warm-up activities, Pilates routines, and cool-down exercises.
The program included a variety of exercises such as range of motion exercises, aerobic exercises, resistance exercises, scar management, occupational therapy, and hand therapy.
Outpatient Clinic of College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University
Al Kharj, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia
Muscle Strength Assessment
Assessed using a calibrated handheld dynamometer (Micro FET2, Hoggan Health Technologies Inc., UT, USA), participants performed three 5-second contractions for each muscle group. The average score in newtons was calculated for each muscle group.
Time frame: at baseline
Muscle Strength Assessment
Assessed using a calibrated handheld dynamometer (Micro FET2, Hoggan Health Technologies Inc., UT, USA), participants performed three 5-second contractions for each muscle group. The average score in newtons was calculated for each muscle group.
Time frame: after 12 weeks
6-minute walk test
Participants were timed and given six minutes to walk as far as they could along a straight course. Running, jumping, or hopping were not allowed.
Time frame: at baseline
6-minute walk test
Participants were timed and given six minutes to walk as far as they could along a straight course. Running, jumping, or hopping were not allowed.
Time frame: after 12 weeks
Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory
A self-report questionnaire assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of children and adolescents. It includes physical health, psychosocial health, and a total summary score.
Time frame: at baseline
Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory
A self-report questionnaire assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of children and adolescents. It includes physical health, psychosocial health, and a total summary score.
Time frame: after 12 weeks
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