The effect of task oriented training on upper extremity function in children with spastic diplegia (8-12 years old)

Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disorder in childhood that affects on motor performance and functional activity. Impaired hand function is the secondary problem in children with spastic diplegia.Individuals with hand dysfunction encounter with difficulties in self care, educational and recreational activities. The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of task oriented training on upper extremity function in children with spastic diplegia (8-12 years old). Fifteen spastic diplegic children were participated in task oriented training three days weekly up to 8 weeks. The outcomes were measured with Jebsen-Ttaylor hand function test for upper extremity function, Purdue peg board test for hand dexterity, goniometer for range of motion and Ashworth scale for spasticity. The data showed significant improvement in upper extremity function (P≤0.0001), hand dexterity (P≤0.001), wrist and elbow range of motion (P≤0.0001) and wrist and elbow spasticity (P≤0.05) after interventions. Our findings suggest that task oriented training can improve upper extremity function in children with spastic diplegia.