CHRIST program to improve hand function in children with spastic cerebral palsy
Effects of Comprehensive Hand Intense Strength Training on In Hand Manipulation and Grip Strength Among Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy
This trial will test whether the CHRIST program improves in-hand manipulation and grip strength in children aged 6–12 with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 14 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07244146 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This quasi-experimental study will deliver the CHRIST intervention three times per week for 40 minutes over a 10-week period to 14 children aged 6–12 with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy. Primary outcomes are in-hand manipulation measured by the Melbourne Assessment 2 and grip strength measured with a dynamometer, collected before and after the intervention. Participants will be recruited from special schools and rehabilitation centers and must be able to follow commands and lift the affected arm at least 15 cm above a table. Data will be analyzed using SPSS v27 to compare pre- and post-intervention performance.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Children aged 6–12 with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy who can follow instructions, communicate needs, and lift their affected arm at least 15 cm above a table are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Children with recent upper-limb fractures or contractures, orthopedic surgery on the affected hand within six months, cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled seizures, significant visual impairments, or inability to cooperate with intensive therapy are unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If effective, CHRIST could increase hand dexterity and grip strength and thereby improve daily activities and independence for these children.
How similar studies have performed: Related high-repetition, task-specific interventions (for example constraint-induced movement therapy and intensive bimanual training) have shown benefits for hand function in hemiplegic cerebral palsy, while CHRIST itself appears to be a novel program.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children Diagnosed with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy. * Age 6-12 years. * Capable of following commands regarding hand use and testing. * Capable of communicating needs. * Parents or caregivers willing to provide informed consent and participate in the study. * No contraindications to moderate physical activity. * Able to lift the more affected arm 15 cm above a table surface and grasp light objects Exclusion Criteria: * Children with musculoskeletal system injuries, including upper limb fractures or contractures, as well as those who had received medications affecting muscle strength or spasticity, were excluded from the study. * Orthopedic surgery involving the more affected hand within the past 6 months. * Children with Cardiovascular disease. * Lack of cooperation with instructions or other behavioral challenges that prevent effective delivery of intensive therapy. * Visual impairments that may hinder active participation. * Seizure or family history of seizure disorders
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab Province
- Imran Amjad — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Fairy Ali, Mspt — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, Phd
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 9233224390125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.