Telerehabilitation vs clinic-based physiotherapy for children with spastic cerebral palsy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial compares a structured telerehabilitation program to standard clinic-based physiotherapy in children with spastic cerebral palsy who are GMFCS levels I–III. Both groups receive therapy three times per week for 12 weeks, with sessions about 45 minutes each. Primary outcomes include changes in gross motor function measured by GMFM-88 and spasticity via MAS, while usability of the telerehabilitation platform is evaluated with the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire. Assessments occur at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks to determine whether telerehabilitation can provide similar motor benefits and to gauge feasibility and user experience. The study aims to determine if remote therapy can reduce travel, cost, and access barriers while delivering comparable clinical gains.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Children aged 4-12 years diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy.
2. Children classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-III.
3. Medically stable children able to participate in physiotherapy sessions.
4. Availability of caregiver support and internet access sufficient to participate in telerehabilitation sessions.
5. Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Children without adequate internet access or caregiver support required for telerehabilitation.
2. Children with uncontrolled seizures or severe comorbidities that interfere with safe participation in physiotherapy.
3. Children classified at GMFCS levels IV-V.
4. Children who have undergone orthopedic surgery or received botulinum toxin injections within the preceding 6 months.

Where it's running

• Health and wellness physiotherapy and rehabilitation centre shewa adda swabi
  Swābi, Kpk, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Zobia Naeem, MS — Riphah International University
• Study coordinator: Zahoor Dr. Zahoor Ahmed, Phd
• Email: Zahoor_riphah@hotmail.com
• Phone: +92 315 6767569

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.