This randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (MCIMT) and Mirror Therapy in improving upper limb function among children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Upper limb dysfunction, including reduced grip strength, impaired manual dexterity, and increased spasticity, limits functional independence and participation in daily activities in these children. Although both interventions are widely used in pediatric rehabilitation, direct comparative evidence remains limited.
A total of 42 children aged 5-9 years diagnosed with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy were recruited from Akbar Kare Institute and Comprehensive Physical Rehabilitation Center, Peshawar. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly allocated into two equal groups using the sealed envelope method. Group A received Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy, while Group B received Mirror Therapy. Both groups received treatment for 30 minutes per session, five sessions per week, for six consecutive weeks.
Grip strength was assessed using the Hand-Held Dynamometer, manual dexterity using the Box and Block Test, and spasticity using the Modified Ashworth Scale. The findings of this study provide evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of these two rehabilitation approaches and may assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate intervention for improving upper limb function in children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Children aged 5-9 years.
Male and female participants.
Diagnosed with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Modified Ashworth Scale Grade 1 or 1+.
Severe fixed hand deformity.
Cognitive impairment.
Severe visual impairment.
Uncontrolled seizures.
Parallel
Experimental
Other interventionParticipants received MCIMT for 30 minutes per session, five sessions per week for six weeks, together with conventional physiotherapy.
Control
Other interventionParticipants received Mirror Therapy for 30 minutes per session, five sessions per week for six weeks, together with conventional physiotherapy.
Grip Strength
Instrument: Hand-Held Dynamometer
Manual Dexterity
Instrument: Box and Block Test Box and Block Test measures unilateral gross manual dexterity. A patient sits at a table and moves as many 2.5 cm wooden blocks as possible one by one from one compartment of a divided box to the other within a 60-second time limit.
Spasticity
Instrument: Modified Ashworth Scale The Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) is a clinical 6-point grading system used to measure increased muscle tone or spasticity by assessing resistance during passive soft tissue stretching.
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
