Effectiveness of structured physiotherapy in constipation in children with neurodevelopmental disorders–a randomized trial

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Constipation is one of the major issues faced by children with neuro-developmental disorder (NDD). The aims of the study were to: 1) examine the effectiveness of a structured physiotherapy program on constipation in children with NDD; and 2) compare if conventional physiotherapy along with structured physiotherapy intervention has any combined effect on constipation in children with NDD.

Method

Thirty-five children with neurodevelopmental disorder were assessed and randomly allotted into two groups. Twenty-two completed the intervention for 2 weeks and were statistically analyzed at baseline and post 4 weeks at a single tertiary center. The outcome measures used were Pediatric quality of life inventory (PedsQL), Peds QL Gastrointestinal symptoms scale, Bristol stool form scale, and defecation frequency. Group A received the conventional treatment, whereas group B received structured physiotherapy along with the conventional treatment.

Results

Group A had no significant outcomes, whereas in group B there were statistically significant differences for all outcome measures. Comparatively, a statistically significant change was noted for PedsQL GI symptoms scale (p = .045) and its constipation sub-scale (p = .002) in group B along with change in the Bristol stool form.

Conclusion

Combined effect of structured along with conventional physiotherapy was better in terms of form of stool, constipation, and its associated quality of life factors as compared to conventional physiotherapy alone.

KEYWORDS:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• constipation
• physical therapy
• gastrointestinal symptoms

Acknowledgments

We wish to convey our gratitude to Mr Prasad D, statistician for his guidance and assistance rendered, and all the participants in this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.