No effect on gait function of progressive resistance exercise in adults with cerebral palsy – A single-blind randomized controlled trial

Muscular weakness has long been recognized as a problem in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP), but has been ignored therapeutically until recently. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a progressive resistance exercise (PRE) programme of seated leg press (SLP) on gait function in adults with spastic diplegic CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level II and III, who experience reduced walking ability, using a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Twelve individuals were included, 6 in the training and 6 in the control group. The training group completed a PRE programme consisting of a 10-min warm-up, followed by SLP 12–15 repetitions maximum (RM) in 4 sets, 3 days a week, for the first 2 weeks, progressing to 6RM in 4 sets, 3 days a week, for the following 6 weeks. Six-RM tests in the SLP machine were performed to determine the training load. The control group continued individual treatment or training as usual. The primary outcome measure was the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Secondary outcome measures were the Ten-meter Walk Test (10 m), stair climbing, the Timed Stands Test (TST) and isokinetic muscle strength of the quadriceps. There was no significant change, or difference in change between the groups, in any of the outcome measures from baseline to 8 weeks. Adults with CP, participating in an 8-week PRE, did not improve their walking, functional lower limb strength or isokinetic strength. The training group did improve their performance in SLP.