Evaluation of lower body positive pressure supported treadmill training for children with cerebral palsy.

PURPOSE: To examine the feasibility of using lower body positive pressure supported (LBPPS) treadmill training to improve the walking abilities, balance and lower extremity strength of children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS: Nine children with CP (GMFCS II-IV) participated in LBPPS treadmill training 2 days per week for 6 weeks. Pre and post training measures of preferred walking speed, spatiotemporal kinematics, lower extremity strength, and the BESTest were used to assess potential improvements from LBPPS treadmill training.

RESULTS: LBPPS treadmill training resulted in significantly faster walking speed, less time in double support, improved overall balance, and strength of the lower extremity antigravity musculature.

CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to use LBPPS treadmill training to improve the walking performance, balance, and strength of children with CP.