Effects of Progressive Resistance Exercise Training on Endurance and Functional Mobility in Children with Spina Bifida

Abstract

Background: Spina bifida has been known as a neurological disorder characterized by common problems that are associated with lower extremities usually having issues with their movement, strength and performing activities of daily living. A lot of practices are carried out on children with spina bifida to help them regain their normal performance. Progressive resistance exercises are applied to children with spina bifida to help them gain power by making them capable of performing movements and their daily tasks and activities. Objective: To assess the effects of progressive resistance exercise training on functional mobility and endurance in children with spina bifida. Methods: Our study is a randomized controlled trial which was conducted in the Children’s Hospital, Lahore. The sample size for this study was calculated to be 20 using the two-proportion mean formula. The sampling technique employed was a non-probability convenience sampling technique to recruit children with spina bifida in our study. Two groups were made one was Group A, the experimental group which received the progressive resistance exercises while Group B, the conventional group received only simple active and passive range of motion exercises of lower extremities. The tool employed was the Patient Specific Scale while the data was collected and measured before and after treatment for both groups. Results: The results of the current study showed significant results in both the groups but Group A received Progressive Resistance Exercises showed statistically significant results within the group having a significant p-value=0.000. Group A showed an increase in its mean score of sit-to-stand by 7.00±2.62 whereas Group B showed an increase in the mean score of sit-to-stand by 5.7±2.90. Group A showed statistically more significant results. For walking, Group A showed an increase in mean score by 6.4±2.83 whereas Group B showed a score of 5.00±3.26. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, both treatment approaches of progressive resistance exercises and conventional exercises were effective but Group A, receiving the progressive resistance exercise training showed more significant differences in mobility and daily activities when compared with Group B, receiving only conventional exercise treatment.