Using fascial manipulation to help children with cerebral palsy

The Efficacy of Fascial Manipulation Compared to Stretching in the Rehabilitation of Children With Cerebral Palsy

Not applicable Interventional Orton Orthopaedic Hospital · NCT06837025

This study tests if a special therapy called fascial manipulation can help children with cerebral palsy improve their movement and walking abilities.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages7 Years to 14 Years
SexAll
SponsorOrton Orthopaedic Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Helsinki)
Trial IDNCT06837025 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of fascial manipulation, a physiotherapy technique, in improving movement difficulties associated with cerebral palsy (CP) in children aged 7-14 years. The method focuses on treating the muscle fascia, which is believed to play a significant role in the stiffness and movement issues experienced by these children. By normalizing the function of muscle-related fascia, the study aims to enhance flexibility and walking ability in participants. The research is crucial for developing future rehabilitation methods for CP in Finland and beyond.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7-14 years with cerebral palsy at GMFCS levels 2-3 who can cooperate during treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who have received fascial manipulation or other specific treatments within the last six months may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.

How similar studies have performed: There have been few studies on fascial manipulation for CP, making this approach relatively novel and untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 7-14 years
* GMFCS level 2-3
* Good cooperation
* Family living in the Helsinki metropolitan area

Exclusion Criteria:

* The child has previously received fascia manipulation by a Stecco-trained therapist or other fascia treatment (if done within the last 6 months)
* Surgeries on the lower limbs (if done within the last 12 months)
* Electrical stimulation treatments (if done within the last 3 months)
* Botox treatments on the lower limbs (if done within the last 6 months)
* Reduced cognitive level
* Severe visual impairment (unable to perform the walking test)
* Other illnesses: psychological or other serious illness

Where this trial is running

Helsinki

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cerebral PalsyFascial manipulationFlexibilitySpasticityWalking abilityInterview studyqualitative study
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.