Functional outcomes of modified constraint-induced movement therapy versus Kinesio taping in children with Erb's palsy

Abstract

Introduction. Functional improvement is the primary goal in chronic cases with neurological deficits. The aim of this study was to compare using modified constraint-induced movement therapy and Kinesio taping to improve functional outcomes in children with Erb's palsy. Methods. The study investigated 46 children with Erb's palsy aged 5-7 years. They were randomly classified into 2 equal groups. Patients in group A engaged in a modified constraint-induced movement therapy program which included restraining of the movement of the non-involved upper extremity, while those in group B received a selected rehabilitative program based on the Kinesio taping method. The treatment programs were conducted 5 times per week for 6 successive weeks. Measurements obtained included active range of motion of shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation, as well as modified Mallet scale scores. These measurements were recorded before and after the application of the treatment program in both groups. Results. There was a significant improvement in external rotation range of motion and forearm supination when comparing pre- and post-treatment mean values in each study group. There were no differences between the groups regarding any of the measured variables. Conclusions. According to the applied procedures and collected data, there was no evidence for a superiority of modified constraint-induced movement therapy when compared with Kinesio taping in improving functional outcomes in children with Erb's palsy.