Effect of less affected grip strength training on grip strength in both hands in unilateral cerebral palsy Grip strength training

Aim: This study was performed to show the effect of less affected grip strength training on grip strength on both upper limbs and its impact on functional manual ability in children with unilateral cerebral palsy/hemiplegia. Material and Methods: This study involved twenty-four children aged 7-12 years from both sexes with unilateral cerebral palsy or hemiplegia, whose degree of spasticity was 1 and +1 according to the modified Ashworth scale. Assessment of grip strength of both hands and functional manual ability were performed using a Camry Hand Held Dynamometer, a Manual Abilities Classification System, and a Pediatric Upper Extremity Motor Activity Log for pre- and post-training test. The Camry Hand Held Dynamometer was used for grip strength training of the less affected hand. Results: This study revealed that less affected grip strength training showed a significant increase in grip strength on both upper limbs, with the mean strength gain on the more affected side being 58.06 +/- 27.88%, while that of the less affected side was 42.36 +/- 28.53% compared with pre-training with improvement in functional manual abilities. Discussion: This study showed a positive role of less affected grip strength training not only on ipsilateral but also on contralateral grip strength in improving functional manual abilities in children with unilateral cerebral palsy or hemiplegia, so this procedure may be used clinically in hand rehabilitation for them.