The Effects of Physical Therapy on Cerebral Palsy

Authors:
  • BSBruce K. Shapiro
    Bruce K. Shapiro
  • RWRenee C. Wachtel
    Renee C. Wachtel
  • MAMarilee C. Allen
    Marilee C. Allen
  • JHJanet E. Hiller
    Janet E. Hiller
  • SHSusan E. Harryman
    Susan E. Harryman
  • BMBarbara S. Mosher
    Barbara S. Mosher
  • CMCurtis L. Meinert
    Curtis L. Meinert
  • ACArnold J. Capute
    Arnold J. Capute
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Abstract
Legislatively mandated programs for early intervention on behalf of handicapped infants often stipulate the inclusion of physical therapy as a major component of treatment for cerebral palsy. To evaluate the effects of physical therapy, we randomly assigned 48 infants (12 to 19 months of age) with mild to severe spastic diplegia to receive either 12 months of physical therapy (Group A) or 6 months of physical therapy preceded by 6 months of infant stimulation (Group B). The infant-stimulation program included motor, sensory, language, and cognitive activities of increasing complexity. Masked outcome assessment was performed after both 6 and 12 months of therapy to evaluate motor quotient, motor ability, and mental quotient.

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