Efficacy of Task-Oriented Circuit Training on Gait Kinematics, Pelvic Symmetry and Trunk Endurance in Children with Hemiplegia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Objectives: Children with hemiplegia often experience motor problems that primarily affect one side of their body. They frequently struggle with asymmetrical gait patterns, pelvic imbalance affecting stability, and reduced trunk muscle endurance, all of which impact their overall mobility and coordination. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of task-oriented circuit training program in improving kinematic gait parameters, pelvic symmetry, and trunk endurance in children with hemiplegia.

Methods: A total of forty children diagnosed with hemiplegia between the ages of 7 and 10 years were randomized into both control and study groups. The control group was given a specially designed physiotherapy program, while the study group was given the identical program applied to the control group, combined with a 12-week task-oriented circuit training intervention. Gait kinematics were assessed using two-dimensional motion analysis, pelvic symmetry was evaluated through a palpation meter inclinometer, and trunk endurance was measured using four validated tests.

Results: A significant improvement was observed in both groups in all outcome measures post-treatment when compared to the baseline mean values in favor to the study group (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Task-oriented circuit training in conjunction with a designed physiotherapy program is more effective in improving gait kinematics, pelvic symmetry, and endurance of trunk muscles among children with hemiplegia.

Clinicaltrials: gov ID: NCT04761263.