Use of Treadmill Training to Improve Gait Parameters after Tendoachilies Tendon Lengthening in Paediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction-Cerebral palsy is the most common form of neurological disorder in pediatric age group. Tightness is most commonly seen in patient with cerebral palsy which causes decreased range of motion and limited gait function. In present study, a 6 year old male patient with hemiplegic cerebral palsy who has been operated for Tendoachillies lengthening by z plasty was having difficulty in walking and reduced weight bearing on the left lower limb and affected balance. Purpose-The purpose of the case report is to describe the use of treadmill training to improve gait parameters in child with cerebral palsy operated for z plasty procedure of Tendoachillies lengthening. Methodology-Treadmill training was given to increase walking speed and to improve gait parameters. After training, conventional physiotherapy treatment was also given. The outcome measures were step length, stride length, cadence and foot prints. Conclusion-After comparison of pre and post treatment outcome measures, it was found that treadmill training is safe and feasible for child with cerebral palsy and indicates that there are positive benefits in walking speed and improvement in gait parameters.