Analysis of running ability in children with cerebral palsy – a scoping literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Children with cerebral palsy present with diverse mobility abnormalities which are classified at the levels of structure and function and activity according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. The authors of most studies on independent mobility in children with cerebral palsy have focused on gait abnormalities. The aim of this literature review was to analyse the running ability in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: A scoping review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement. A search of the PubMed database was performed using the terms “cerebral palsy” and “running.” Results: Children with cerebral palsy run at a lower speed compared to their healthy peers. They have a shorter stride length. The power generated by various muscle groups is different from that observed in typically developing children. This results in different kinematics and hence lower quality of running. Implementation of training focused on running as part of the rehabilitation process in children with cerebral palsy may bring positive results. Discussion: The ability of running is important not only to move quickly but also to participate in the activities of daily living performed by typically developing children. Because of that, it is advisable to incorporate elements of running training into the rehabilitation process in children with cerebral palsy, whenever possible.