Hvordan påvirker fysisk aktivitet de bevegelsesvansker CP-rammede barn opplever?

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the outcome of physical activity for children with cerebral palsy with respect to motor disorder, appropriation of skills and the experience of coping. It is assumed that early medical treatment in combination with training therapy can improve motor function for children with cerebral palsy. Knowledge about physiological aspects in brain injury among children, together with reorganization of brain injury under the influence of training, support the assumption that training can improve motor function. The study was performed during January 2005 at Beitostølen Helsesportsenter with qualitative observations as the main source of data collection. The subjects were 5 children with mild to severe cerebral palsy, aged 13 to 16 years. During three weeks of physical intervention the children daily participated in different kind of activities. The result shows most improvement in the appropriation of skills and in social function. Even in activities the children were use to do at home, they improved. The instructors assisted the children with guidance and adapted aids. The aided physical intervention motivated. The social interaction with other disabled children had a motivating effect. Activities in a supportive context gave the children opportunities to new learning and coping. Horse-back riding improved muscle tone. The improvement in using the affected upper extremity without immobilisation of the normally function extremity, were seen in swimming and horse-back riding. One of the children learned to swim. Everyone had positive experiences in cross country-skiing. These findings varied, and were depended on what type of dysfunction the child was affected of. Children with cerebral palsy benefit from physical intervention in a social context. In addition of being an advantage for functional disabilities, children find physical activity to be fun, they gain new friends and get the opportunity to experience coping.