Observations of four children with severe cerebral palsy using a novel dynamic platform. A case report

Abstract The aim was to evaluate effects on bone mineral content (BMC) in children with severe cerebral palsy (CP) standing on a self-controlled dynamic platform (vibrations, jumps and rotation), assess reactions expressed and record negative effects. An experimental design was used. Four children with severe CP participated. Two children used the platform for 8–9 months while two children were controls (period I). After 1 year, the former users were controls (period II). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed. Children in period I (Child 1/Child 2) were exposed to whole body vibration for 330/394 min on 28/25 occasions and showed a percentage change in BMC values at the lumbar spine of +35/+23% (versus controls, Child 3/Child 4, −9/+7%), left legs −9/ −12% (vs. −2/ −12%) and right legs +61/+34% (vs. −18/+10%). Children in period II (Child 3/Child 4) were exposed for 524/635 min on 57/64 occasions. The corresponding percentage change in BMC values at the lumbar spine was +10/+10% (+21/+5%), left legs +26/+22% (0/+5%) and right legs +26/+17% (+15/ −1%). The children's reactions were perceived positive. No negative effects were recorded. Standing on a self-controlled dynamic platform may be an enjoyable method to increase BMC in children with severe CP.