The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy

The Korean Society of Physical Therapy (대한물리치료학회)
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Effects of Neuro Training on Gross Motor and Balance Development in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Single-Subject Design

  • Ji-Yun Choi (Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Daegu Catholic University) ;
  • Ji-Na Seo (Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Daegu Catholic University) ;
  • Ji-Won Park (Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Daegu Catholic University)
  • Received : 2025.03.18
  • Accepted : 2025.05.07
  • Published : 2025.04.30
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Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effects of Neuro Training on the motor function and balance in children with cerebral palsy using external sensory signals to activate neural pathways. Methods: This single-subject study explored the effects of individualized Neuro Training in three children with spastic cerebral palsy (GMFCS levels II-III), each assigned to a different design: AB (Subject 1), ABAB (Subject 2), and AA (Subject 3/control). All participants received therapy twice a week for 40 minutes, including 30 minutes of neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) and 10 minutes of personalized Neuro Training. The Neuro Training schedule included a tailored mix of visual-perceptual, vestibular, vibration, and cerebellar stimulation. The motor function was assessed using GMFM-88 and the Korean Pediatric Balance Scale (K-PBS), with timing aligned to each design. Subject 1 received a four-week intervention and was followed up for three months. Subject 2 completed the intervention, withdrawal, and re-intervention phases. Subject 3 received only NDT for five months, with monthly evaluations. This design allowed for in-depth observation of the individualized impact of Neuro Training on the gross motor and balance functions across different intervention models. Results: GMFM and K-PBS showed significant improvements in motor and balance abilities, especially in subjects receiving continuous intervention (AB and ABAB). These findings suggest that sustained Neuro Training enhances motor and balance functions in children with cerebral palsy. Conclusion: Neuro Training positively impacted gross motor development and balance in children with cerebral palsy by stimulating the neural and motor pathways. Nevertheless, further research will be needed to verify the long-term effects with a larger sample. Identifying the mechanisms behind NTT stimulation remains a key area for future study.

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References

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