Article
Physical Activity in Cerebral Palsy: A Current State Study
Author/s | Molina Cantero, Alberto Jesús
Pousada-García, Thais Pacheco-da-Costa, Soraya Lebrato Vázquez, Clara Mendoza-Sagrera, Alejandro Meriggi, Paolo Gómez González, Isabel María |
Department | Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Tecnología Electrónica |
Publication Date | 2024-02 |
Deposit Date | 2024-03-08 |
Abstract | This document analyzes a survey conducted in three geographical areas in Spain, focusing on centers for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). The study aims to determine the adherence rate to recommended physical activity ... This document analyzes a survey conducted in three geographical areas in Spain, focusing on centers for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). The study aims to determine the adherence rate to recommended physical activity guidelines, assess if there is a decline in interest in physical activity over time, identify the stage at which this decline occurs, and explore potential mechanisms, tools, or strategies to sustain long-term engagement in regular physical activity for this population. The 36-item questionnaire comprises multiple-choice, open-ended, and Likert scale-type questions. Data were collected on physical activity frequency and duration, daily living activities, and demographics. Statistical analysis identified patterns and relationships between variables. Findings reveal that only a 17.6% meets the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations regarding regular physical activity (RPA), decreasing in frequency or number of days a week, (3.7 d/w to 2.9 d/w; p < 0.01) and duration (50.5 min/d to 45.2 min/d; p < 0.001) with age, especially for those with higher Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) mobility levels. Obesity slightly correlates with session duration (ρ = −0.207; p < 0.05), not mobility limitations. Gender has no significant impact on mobility, communication, or physical activity, while age affects variables such as body mass index (BMI) and engagement (p < 0.01). A substantial proportion follows regular physical activities based on health professionals’ advice, with interest decreasing with age. To improve adherence, focusing on sports-oriented goals, group sessions, and games is recommended. These findings emphasize the importance of personalized programs, particularly for older individuals and those with greater mobility limitations. |
Funding agencies | MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 Spain’s Ministry of Science and Innovation project AAI, Grant PID2019-104323RB-C32 MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 Spain’s Ministry of Science and Innovation project AIRPLANE, Grant PID2019-104323RB-C31 MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 Spain’s Ministry of Science and Innovation project MATCH, Grant PID2019-104323RB-C33 |
Project ID. | PID2019-104323RB-C32
PID2019-104323RB-C31 PID2019-104323RB-C33 |
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H_lebrato-vazquez_2024_physical.pdf | 907.8Kb | [PDF] | View/ | |