The Effects of Robotic Rehabilitation in Addition to Neurodevelopmental Therapy on Lower Extremity and Trunk Functions in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition characterized by various motor disorders and limitations caused by brain damage. Neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) is one of the primary approaches in the rehabilitation of individuals with CP. In recent years, technological rehabilitation methods, including robotic rehabilitation, have become more widespread. This study aimed to investigate the effects of robotic rehabilitation applied in addition to neurodevelopmental treatment on the lower extremity and trunk functions in children with CP. Fifteen children with CP participated in the study. The motor levels of the participants were assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), gross motor functions with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88), spasticity with the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), sitting balance with the Seated Postural Control Measure (SPCM) and Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), balance with the Becure Balance System and Timed Up and Go Test, and selective motor control with the Selective Control Assessment of the Lower Extremity (SCALE). After these assessments, the participants received NDT five times a week for a total of 20 sessions, each lasting 45 minutes, followed by reevaluation. After a two-week break, robotic rehabilitation was applied in addition to NDT for 20 sessions, with each session lasting 25 minutes, and evaluations were repeated.