Specialized Hand Function Therapy for Cerebral Palsy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the implementation of Therapy Together, a pediatric constraint-induced movement therapy program in young children with unilateral cerebral palsy. The main question\[s\] it aims to answer are:* Is the Therapy Together program effective in improving hand function and occupational performance compared to usual care?* Is it feasible to implement the Therapy Together program within the standard care, early intervention framework?Participants will participate in an 8-week pediatric constraint-induced movement therapy program. Researchers will compare the group completing the Therapy Together Program to a group that is receiving usual care to see if there is a difference in the change in hand function, occupational performance, and development.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
Is Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) safe for children with cerebral palsy?
How is the treatment Therapy Together (CIMT) different from other treatments for cerebral palsy?
Therapy Together, or Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT), is unique because it involves restraining the less-affected hand to encourage the use of the affected hand, promoting better hand function through intensive practice. This approach is different from other treatments as it specifically targets increasing the spontaneous use of the affected limb, helping to overcome developmental disregard where the affected limb is often ignored.23467
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Therapy Together, Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT), Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy, Usual Care, Standard Care, Conventional Care for cerebral palsy?
Research shows that Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) can improve hand function in children with cerebral palsy by encouraging the use of the affected hand through intensive practice and restraining the less-affected hand. Studies indicate that CIMT leads to better hand skills and muscle activation, which are important for functional gains in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.13456
Who Is on the Research Team?
Angela Shierk, PhD
Principal Investigator
Scottish Rite for Children
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young children aged 3 months to 2 years and 11 months who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, show uneven use of their hands, and can focus on objects visually. They should be interested in objects and try to reach or grab them with the less functional arm.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants complete the 8-week Therapy Together program, which includes caregiver education and coaching on implementing therapeutic activities that are play-based, age-appropriate, and tailored to meet goals to improve arm/hand function.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments of hand function and occupational performance.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Therapy Together
- Usual Care
Therapy Together is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children
Lead Sponsor
American Occupational Therapy Foundation
Collaborator