Strength Training Effects on Muscle Forces and Contributions to Whole-Body Movement in Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Strength training is often prescribed for children with cerebral palsy (CP); however, links between strength gains and mobility are unclear. Nine children (age 14 ± 3 years; GMFCS I-III) with spastic CP completed a 6-week strength-training program. Musculoskeletal gait simulations were generated for four children to assess training effects on muscle forces and function. There were increases in isometric joint strength, but no statistical changes in fast-as-possible walking speed or endurance after training. The walking simulations revealed changes in muscle forces and contributions to body center of mass acceleration, with greater forces from the hip muscles during walking most commonly observed. A progressive strength-training program can result in isometric and dynamic strength gains in children with CP, associated with variable mobility outcomes.

Keywords:

• biomechanics
• muscle function
• musculoskeletal model
• physical therapy
• simulation

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

There are no conflicts of interest associated with this work.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship [grant number DGE-1057607] and the Pediatrics Section of the American Physical Therapy Association.