Evaluation of functional capacity and modulation cardiorespiratory autonomic in patients with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Introduction: Field tests have become an important tool to evaluate the effects of a program of rehabilitation exercises on physical fitness in children and adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP). These have some important advantages over laboratory tests are usually cheaper, easier to administer and require fewer resources with regard to specialized equipment. Study design: Cross-sectional observational, comparative and inter-methodology. Objectives: To evaluate the functional capacity and modulation of the autonomic nervous system by controlled speed walk test endurance and incremental and six-minute walk test. Subject: A sample population that will be part of this project will consist of 38 children with CP between 3 and 12 years of age. Methods: The assessment consists of the measurement of motor function, functional capacity cardiorespiratory (test speed controlled, six-minute walk test, in addition to the measures of respiratory muscle strength and spirometry and autonomic nervous system evaluation). The results will be statistically analyzed assuming a significance level of 0.05. Study hypothesis: The functional capacity of the tests will be different. Relevance of the study: This study is expected to show the importance of field tests on cardiorespiratory assessment, and thus propose a better preparation of more effective protocols for the improvement of the conditioning of child. (AU)