Comparative Effects of Kinesiotaping and Functional Electrical Stimulation on Motor Function and Psychosocial Well-Being in Children with Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

RESUMO

Fahad A. Almalki*, Mohamed B. Ibrahim, Osama A. El-Agamy, Sara Y. Elsebahy

Background: Children with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) frequently have equinus deformity, a gait abnormality that frequently results in decreased mobility and functional impairments. Non-invasive methods for enhancing ankle dorsiflexion and gait patterns include Kinesiotaping (KT) and functional electrical stimulation (FES).

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine how well KT and FES worked to improve gait metrics, balance and lessen equinus deformity in kids with diplegic cerebral palsy.

Methods: forty children with spastic diplegic CP (ages 4–7) were randomly assigned into two groups. Group A received KT to the gastrocnemius-soleus, and Group B received FES to the tibialis anterior muscle. Both groups received a design physical therapy programme. Interventions were administered 3 times per week for 12 weeks. Outcome measures included the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), walking speed, and step length, all of which were assessed both pre- and post-treatment.

Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in all outcome measures (p < 0.05). However, the FES group demonstrated significantly greater gains in GMFM scores, PBS scores, walking speed, and step length compared to the KT group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: While both KT and FES are effective in managing equinus deformity and improving functional outcomes in children with diplegic CP, FES provides superior benefits in enhancing gait performance, but KT provides greater improvement in the pediatric balance scale.