Daily Intervention for Young Children With Cerebral Palsy in GMFCS Level V

In Brief Purpose: To describe a daily physical therapy (PT) intervention program and outcomes for 2 young children with spastic quadriplegia, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level V, and to evaluate the feasibility of using a daily program in an urban children's hospital outpatient setting. Summary of Key Points: Two young children, GMFCS level V, received 2 hours of PT intervention based on motor learning principles 5 days a week for 4 consecutive weeks. Gross Motor Functional Measure (GMFM-66, GMFM-88) and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Third Edition, were used as pre- and postoutcome measures. The daily, high intensity intervention was well tolerated. Improvements in motor function, language, and cognitive skills were found. Statement of Conclusion: A daily PT program appears feasible and may improve overall development in young children with cerebral palsy in GMFCS level V. After providing care for 2 young children, the authors suggest that a daily physical therapy program appears feasible and may improve overall development in young children with cerebral palsy at GMFCS level V.