Comparing two physical therapy approaches for young children with cerebral palsy
Official title: Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Physical Therapy Intervention Targeting Sitting and Reaching for Young Children with Cerebral Palsy
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10875374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $564,865 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD101900-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 8 to 24 months or those without a diagnosis of cerebral palsy may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar physical therapy interventions, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dusing, Stacey Chapman — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Dusing, Stacey Chapman
Related research
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This project tests a tele-rehabilitation program to help adults with chronic low back pain in rural communities access physical therapy and reduce opioid use.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.