A Study Regarding the Role of Physical Therapy in Improving Gross Motor Function and the Integration of the Archaic Reflexes in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy in children (CP) is a group of non-progressive neurological disorders characterized by inadequate control of movement and posture, caused by factors affecting the central nervous system pre-, intra-, or postnatally, within the first 3-5 years of life (the initial period of brain development). Cerebral palsies are considered non-progressive conditions, but they are continuously dynamic, influenced by the processes of growth and development, so the clinical manifestations can change over time. Aim: The purpose of this paper is to emphasize the role of physical therapy in improving Gross Motor Function and integrating Primitive Reflexes in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Material and methods: The study was conducted at the Mihai Nesu Foundation (Oradea) over a period of 6 months (from November 7, 2022, to May 5, 2023) on a female subject with a chronological age of 6 years and 5 months. It involved implementing a physical therapy program twice a week, consisting of exercises to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic girdle, trunk, and lower limbs, as well as exercises to improve anterior knee balance, coordination, and integration of primitive reflexes. Results: Following the rehabilitation program, regarding the progression of walking, a reduction in the time needed by the patient to complete it was observed, from 21 seconds initially to 18 seconds at the end. Additionally, the integration of the Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex on both the left and right sides, as well as the Moro reflex for the vestibular and visual systems, was evident. The Stepping-Over-Obstacle reflex was integrated within physiological parameters, while no changes were observed in the Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex of Flexion/Extension from the beginning to the end. Conclusion: In conclusion, we can affirm that implementing a comprehensive rehabilitation program over a period of 6 months, consisting of thermotherapy, massage, and sensory stimulation, followed by Thera-Suit sessions and physical therapy, will allow for the integration of primitive reflexes, improvement of walking and balance, as well as the enhancement of gross motor function in a child with spastic tetraparesis, as confirmed by partial results.

Keywords

• cerebral palsy
• spastic tetraparesis
• physical therapy
• primitive reflexes
• gross motor function