A new modification of adjustable standing frame for children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Standing frame is commonly used in rehabilitation training for children with cerebral palsy (CP), but the design and clinical effectiveness were rarely investigated. In this study we modified the standing frame with adjusted footplate with a separate control, a linear acurator, high-density durable foam and adjusted table surface with Acme lead screew and sliding block. Six spastic quadriplegic CP children (aged 4.6±1.3y/o) were recruited and received electromyographic (EMG) evaluation on using both the traditional and modified standing frame for 15 minutes, with a two-week interval. A questionnaire was obtained after the evaluations. EMG studies showed significantly lowered activities of bilateral anterior tibialis and gastrocnemius after using the modified standing frame for 6 to 15 minutes. The questionnaire also showed significant increased adjustment and satisfaction index with the modified frame. This modification reduces spasticity and muscle tone in CP children and helps to enhance the efficacy of rehabilitation program.