Habitual physical activity can be increased in people with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

Objective: To determine if habitual physical activity could be increased in people with cerebral palsy.Data sources: We searched electronic databases until February 2010 using key words related to concepts of cerebral palsy and physical activity. This search was supplemented with citation tracking.Methods: Studies had to include participants with cerebral palsy who have habitual physical activity measured over at least one day after a therapy intervention. Two reviewers independently assessed study quality with the PEDro scale (quantitative studies) and Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research (qualitative studies). For quantitative studies standardized mean differences were calculated and meta-analysis conducted. Qualitative data were synthesized thematically.Results: Three randomized controlled trials (96 participants) and two qualitative studies (21 participants) were reviewed. Four studies evaluated exercise programmes, and one study an online educational and support programme. Meta-analy...