Evaluation of lower body positive pressure supported treadmill training for children with cerebral palsy

To examine the feasibility of using lower body positive pressure supported (LBPPS) treadmill training to improve the walking abilities, balance and lower extremity strength of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Nine children with CP (GMFCS II-IV) participated in LBPPS treadmill training 2 days per week for 6 weeks. Pre and post training measures of preferred walking speed, spatiotemporal kinematics, lower extremity strength, and the BESTest were used to assess potential improvements from LBPPS treadmill training. LBPPS treadmill training resulted in significantly faster walking speed, less time in double support, improved overall balance, and strength of the lower extremity antigravity musculature. It is feasible to use LBPPS treadmill training to improve the walking performance, balance, and strength of children with CP.