Comparing two physical therapy approaches for young children with cerebral palsy

Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Physical Therapy Intervention Targeting Sitting and Reaching for Young Children with Cerebral Palsy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10875374

This study is looking at how two different types of physical therapy can help young children, ages 8 to 24 months, who have or are at risk for cerebral palsy, with one therapy focusing on play and problem-solving skills and the other on improving motor skills, all in the comfort of their homes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10875374 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of two physical therapy interventions for children aged 8 to 24 months who have or are at high risk for cerebral palsy. One intervention, called START-Play, focuses on enhancing sitting, reaching, and problem-solving skills to support overall development, while the other, Usual Care Physical Therapy (UCPT), aims to improve motor skills and prevent impairments. The study will compare these two approaches in a home setting, using licensed physical therapists to ensure consistency and quality of care. By evaluating the impact of the therapy dose on outcomes, the research aims to provide valuable insights into the best practices for treating young children with cerebral palsy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 8 to 24 months who have been diagnosed with or are at high risk for cerebral palsy.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 8 to 24 months or those without a diagnosis of cerebral palsy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved physical therapy strategies that enhance development in young children with cerebral palsy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar physical therapy interventions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.