This randomized clinical trial investigates the effects of modified CIMT with and without the addition of PNF techniques on upper extremity function in pediatric stroke patients, aiming to determine whether combining these approaches yields superior motor recovery.This study will be conducted as a randomized clinical trial over an intervention period of six-week. 20 pediatric stroke patients with upper extremity impairments will be randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving modified CIMT alone and the other receiving modified CIMT combined with PNF techniques. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will be conducted using standardized measures, such as Pediatric Motor Activity Log(PMAL) for upper extremity function, Modified Ashworth Scale(MAS) and Manual Ability Classification System(MACS). Muscle tone and physical activity status will also be evaluated. Data will be entered and analyzed in SPSS V-26.0 to compare improvements in motor function between the two groups, with statistical significance assessed to determine the efficacy of each intervention
Pediatric stroke often results in impaired upper extremity function, significantly affecting children's ability to perform daily tasks and reducing their overall quality of life. Traditional therapeutic approaches may not provide sufficient recovery, necessitating the exploration of more effective interventions. Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) has been shown to improve motor function in pediatric stroke patients by enhancing the use of the affected limb. However, incorporating Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques may enhance the outcomes further by stimulating neuromuscular pathways to improve strength and coordination. The objective of this study is to compare the effects of modified CIMT with and without the addition of PNF techniques on upper extremity function in pediatric stroke patients, aiming to determine whether combining these approaches yields superior motor recovery. This study will be conducted as a randomized clinical trial over an intervention period of six-week. 20 pediatric stroke patients with upper extremity impair-ents will be randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving modified CIMT alone and the other receiving modified CIMT combined with PNF techniques. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will be conducted using standardized measures, such as Pediatric Motor Activity Log(PMAL) for upper extremity function, Modified Ashworth Scale(MAS) and Manual Ability Classification System(MACS). Muscle tone and physical activity status will also be evaluated. Data will be entered and analyzed in SPSS V-26.0 to compare improvements in motor function between the two groups, with statistical significance assessed to determine the efficacy of each intervention.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
20
Modified CIMT Protocol: Participants wear a mitt on the unaffected hand daily for 5 hours approximately to encourage the use of the affected upper limb. They engage in task-oriented activities designed to improve motor function, hand-eye coordination, and strength of the affected extremity.
PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) is a stretching and rehabilitation technique that combines muscle contraction and relaxation with passive stretching to improve flexibility, range of motion, and muscle control
Imran Amjad
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
RECRUITINGPediatric Motor Activity Log (PMAL)
This log will be used to assess the spontaneous use of the affected upper limb in daily activities. Parents/guardians will rate the frequency and quality of use.
Time frame: Base line, 3rd Week, 6th week
Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS)
This scale will be used to assess the degree of spasticity in the affected upper limb.
Time frame: Base line, 3rd Week, 6th week
Manual Ability Classification System (MACS)
The MACS will classify the participant's ability to handle objects and perform manual tasks in daily activities.
Time frame: Base line, 3rd Week, 6th week
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