Understanding physical therapy needs after surgery in children with cerebral palsy

Capturing and characterizing the variability in physical therapy dose after orthopedic multi-level surgery in ambulatory children with Cerebral Palsy

['FUNDING_R03'] · CINCINNATI CHILDRENS HOSP MED CTR · NIH-10809965

This study is looking at how different kinds and amounts of physical therapy help children with cerebral palsy recover their walking ability after surgery, so we can find the best ways to support their healing.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R03']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCINCINNATI CHILDRENS HOSP MED CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10809965 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different types and frequencies of physical therapy (PT) are provided to children with cerebral palsy (CP) after they undergo orthopedic multi-level surgery. The study aims to gather data on the variations in PT practices across different settings and how these practices relate to the recovery of walking ability six months post-surgery. By evaluating sixteen children before and after their surgery, the research will utilize electronic health records and surveys to capture detailed information about the therapy they receive. This information could help establish best practices for post-surgical rehabilitation in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are ambulatory children aged 0-11 years who have cerebral palsy and are scheduled to undergo orthopedic multi-level surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are not ambulatory or those who do not require orthopedic multi-level surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved physical therapy protocols that enhance recovery outcomes for children with cerebral palsy after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence on post-surgical PT best practices for this specific population, similar studies have shown the importance of tailored rehabilitation approaches in improving outcomes for children with disabilities.

Where this research is happening

CINCINNATI, 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.