Effects of Dorsal Static Splint on Spasticity and Range of Motion of Upper Extremity of Children with Cerebral Palsy in Three Time Periods

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by non-progressive lesions in single or multiple locations in the immature brain. Lesions of motor cortex and pyramidal tracts can lead to spasticity. Inhibition of spasticity is necessary to increase extremity mobilization, prevent postural abnormalities and provide independence in daily living activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of volar static splint spasticity and range of motion of upper extremity in children with Cerebral palsy in threeperiods of time. The design of this study was experimental and repeated measurements. Ten children with Cerebral palsy aging 4-6 years old were non-randomly selected among children referred to occupational therapy Clinic of rehabilitation Faculty of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Children used dorsal static splint for three months (2 hours at day and 4 hours at night). In this study, Modified Ashworth Scale was used to evaluate spasticity and a Goniometrewas used to measure passive range of motion. The results of this study showed significant reduction in the upper limb spasticity after 2 months (p≤0.0001) and significant increase in wrist passive range of motion after one, two and three months (p=0.007, p≤0.0001 and p≤0.0001, respectively) and significant increase in elbow passive range of motion after two (p=0.009) and three (p≤0.0001) months. This study shows that use of dorsal static splint in children with Cerebral palsy for 3 months has significant effects on reduction of upper limb spasticity and increasing passive range ofmotion of the wrist and elbow joints.