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.