Patterns of improvement in neurological functioning of children with minimal cerebral dysfunction with physiotherapy intervention

Abstract

Sixty-four children with minimal cerebral dysfunction (MCD) were studied to evaluate the effectiveness of using a developmental physiotherapy approach to treatment. Assessments of the children's performance in major areas of neurological development were made initially and after six months. In addition, a twelve months assessment allowed a determination of whether early progress was maintained after cessation of treatment. Analyses of results revealed that physiotherapy treatment does ameliorate the neuro-developmental problems seen in children with MCD, and that beneficial effects are well established after six months. On cessation of treatment, the children maintained the better level of functioning for a further six months in comparison to the control group. Resolution of neurological problems after a relatively brief period of physiotherapy justifies this form of intervention for children with MCD.