Gorter (2011) Aquatic exercise programs for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy what do we go to?

Introduction to Aquatic Exercise in Cerebral Palsy

Aquatic exercise programs offer a promising therapeutic approach for children and adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP), particularly beneficial for those with significant movement limitations. Despite its potential, the evidence supporting the effectiveness of aquatic interventions remains limited, necessitating a review of recent literature to identify research trends and future directions.

Current Research Trends

Recent studies primarily focus on aerobic aquatic interventions tailored for higher-functioning children and adolescents with CP, predominantly those with spastic CP. The interventions typically incorporate aerobic activities like swimming and water walking, with some including anaerobic and strength training components. Despite the observed benefits, such as improvements in muscle strength, energy expenditure, and gross motor function, the research is limited by small sample sizes and a lack of diversity in CP severity levels represented.

Methodological Considerations

The reviewed studies share common methodological limitations, including small participant numbers and a lack of control groups, which hinders the generalizability of findings. Future research should aim for more robust study designs with larger, more diverse participant samples to enhance the validity of findings.

Outcomes and Benefits

Although the studies report improvements in body function and activity levels, there is a notable gap in participation-focused outcomes. The aquatic environment’s unique properties, such as reduced weight-bearing and joint load, suggest potential for significant benefits, particularly for individuals with more severe CP. However, the lack of research involving these populations underscores the need for inclusive studies.

Future Directions and Conclusion

To advance the field, future research should encompass a broader range of CP severity levels and investigate the effectiveness of various aquatic exercise types, including anaerobic and strength-focused activities. Additionally, exploring the psychological impacts and safety of aquatic exercise for children and adolescents with CP will provide a more comprehensive understanding of its benefits and limitations. Addressing these gaps will help establish aquatic exercise as a viable and effective component of CP management.

Keywords: Cerebral Palsy, aquatic exercise, research trends, methodological considerations, future directions.