This project aims to develop an accessible, learning-oriented model based on gamified breathing and posture training that emphasizes active participation for children with cerebral palsy (CP), their families, and educators. Since current practices are largely clinic-centered, there is a growing need for game-based, motivational and widely discernible programs. In this context, the project aims to provide an inclusive model that enhances breathing and postural awareness through digital technology, thereby increasing motivation and adherence.
Within the scope of the project, gamified hands-on workshops including breathing exercises and postural imagery techniques supported by visual and auditory stimuli, such as candle blowing, boat floating, and triflo simulations, will be conducted twice a week for eight weeks at the Spastic Children's Foundation of Turkey (TSÇV) with the guidance of an instructor. Additionally, educational digital games and storytelling videos will be developed to support home-based programs participation. An initial awareness education session will be held to provide children with CP, families, and educators with foundational knowledge on breathing and postural awareness in children with CP. Throughout the project, gamified videos will be shared on the project's website to reach a wider population. Furthermore, a workshop for educators and a closing seminar for families will be organized. The target groups include children with CP, their families, and educators involved in educational processes. 40 children with CP aged 6-18 years, receiving rehabilitation at TSÇV, with literacy skills and parental consent, will participate. The effects of the N.E.F.E.S.-CP model to be developed on respiratory functions, body awareness, posture, social participation, and quality of life will be evaluated using standardized assessment methods.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
Gamified breathing and postural awareness training, including hands-on workshops with exercises such as candle blowing, boat floating, and triflo simulations, alongside postural imagery techniques supported by visual and auditory stimuli. The program will be conducted twice a week for 8 weeks.
Spastic Children's Foundation of Turkey (TSÇV)
Istanbul, İ̇stanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
Spirometry Assessment FVC
Spirometric variables will be measured using a calibrated spirometer (Medical International Research Spirodoc®) to evaluate respiratory function. Participants will be instructed to perform maximal inhalation followed by a forceful and complete exhalation into the spirometer in accordance with standardized spirometry guidelines. To minimize measurement error and ensure accuracy, three valid trials will be performed, and the highest recorded values will be used for final analysis. Spirometry is a well-established, reliable, and objective method for assessing pulmonary function in clinical settings.
Time frame: 8 weeks (from baseline to post-intervention)
Spirometry Assessment FEV1
Spirometric variables will be measured using a calibrated spirometer (Medical International Research Spirodoc®) to evaluate respiratory function. Participants will be instructed to perform maximal inhalation followed by a forceful and complete exhalation into the spirometer in accordance with standardized spirometry guidelines. To minimize measurement error and ensure accuracy, three valid trials will be performed, and the highest recorded values will be used for final analysis. Spirometry is a well-established, reliable, and objective method for assessing pulmonary function in clinical settings.
Time frame: 8 weeks (from baseline to post-intervention)
Postural assessment
Posture will be evaluated using the New York Posture Rating Test. This assessment method divides the body into distinct regions according to anatomical alignment, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of posture in the sagittal and frontal planes. Each body region is scored based on standardized criteria, and the total score provides an objective measure of postural alignment.
Time frame: 8 weeks (from baseline to post-intervention)
Quality of Life (CPQOL-Child)
Quality of life will be assessed using the Cerebral Palsy Quality of Life Questionnaire (CPQOL-Child). This condition-specific measure is designed to capture the unique perspectives and experiences of children with cerebral palsy, covering various domains such as physical well-being, social participation, and emotional functioning.
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40
Time frame: 8 weeks (from baseline to post-intervention)
Thoracic Mobility Assessment
Thoracic mobility will be assessed through chest circumference measurements to determine thoracic expansion capacity. To ensure the reliability and clinical accuracy of the data, measurements will be taken at three standardized anatomical levels: the axillary, the nipple/xiphoid process, and the sub-xiphoid levels. Participants will be instructed to perform maximal inspiration and maximal expiration while in a seated position. All measurements will be recorded using a tape measure. To control for measurement error, each measurement will be repeated three times, and the mean value will be used for final analysis. Thoracic expansion will be calculated as the quantitative difference between the chest circumference values obtained during maximal inspiration and maximal expiration. This measurement technique is recognized as a reliable and clinically feasible approach for evaluating thoracic mobility in pediatric populations.
Time frame: 8 weeks (from baseline to post-intervention)