The effects of different aquatic interventions on muscle power, balance, endurance, and functional skills in children with spastic cerebral palsy

Purpose: This study examined the impact of aquatic interventions on children with spastic CP regarding their physical function and functional independence. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from 2017 to 2018 at a rehabilitation center, involving 48 children diagnosed with spastic CP, aged between 6 and 12 years. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups: a Swimming Group (SW, n = 16), Ai Chi Stretching Group (AS, n = 16), and a Control Group (n = 16). Outcome measures included the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), hand grip dynamometer readings, Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Results: The findings revealed that both the Swimming (SW) and Ai Chi Stretching (AS) Groups showed significant improvements in gross motor function (p =.04). Spasticity levels remained consistent (p >.05). However, the SW Group exhibited increased muscle power (p =.001) and hand grip strength (p =.05). Balance improved in the SW Group (p =.05), and endurance increased in the AS Group (p =.01). Conclusion: This study underscored the value of aquatic interventions in enhancing the physical performance of children suffering from spastic CP and revealed that this exercise improves children’s well-being and quality of life.