Comparison of short-and long-time action observation training (AOT) on upper limb function in children with cerebral palsy

PURPOSE: We compared short- and long-time action observation training (AOT) in terms of grip strength, the Quality of Upper Extremities Skills Test (QUEST), and the ABILHAND-Kids test. METHODS: In total, 10 children with cerebral palsy (CP) participated. The children were assigned randomly to experimental group (n = 5) and control group (n = 5). The experimental group observed video tasks of goal-directed action before performing tasks, for 30 minutes per day, three times per week, for 4 weeks. The control group observed and performed the same actions, 60 minutes per day, three times per week, for 4 weeks. RESULTS: Grip strength, QUEST, and ABILHAND-Kids test results improved significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups in any variable tested (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The 30 minutes AOT was as effective as 60 minutes AOT in improving grip strength and upper limb function in children with CP. The results of our study suggest that 30 minutes AOT is a simple and not very time-consuming therapy for improving upper limb function in children with CP. We recommend that 30 minutes AOT be used for treating upper limbs in the clinic and at home.