Name and Surname: assist. prof. Katja Groleger Sršen, PhD
Links: ARIS 21592
E-mail:katja.groleger@mf.uni-lj.si

Research facility (research activity location)

Univerzitetni rehabilitacijski inštitut Republike Slovenije Soča (URI Soča)

UP Fakulteta za vede o zdravju

Research field according to CERIF – CERCS classification
Science: Medicine (humans and vertebrates)
Field: Physical medicine, kinesiotherapy, rehabilitation / Physical education, motor learning, sports

Summary of research topic and field

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a spectrum of permanent disorders of movement and postural control that arise from non-progressive defects or developmental abnormalities of the central
nervous system in early childhood. The disorders affect daily activities and quality of life. In hemiparetic CP, the hand is often impaired, which can affect independence in performing daily tasks. Previous research has shown that therapy with the Armeo Spring Pediatric (ASP) robotic device improves functional use of the supporting hand, hand grip strength and frequent use of it in the home environment, with the effects being maintained for 6 months after completion. Our study will build on previous findings with a larger sample and an emphasis on the development of the dominant hand in children with hemiparetic CP. In this population, the ratio between the left and right hands is different than in the population of typically developing children, which raises the question of lateralization and the impact of early neurological damage on motor functions. The study will be longitudinal, prospective and interventional, and will include subjects aged 5-15 years with hemiparetic CP, who will be included in a therapeutic program using the robotically assisted ASP device. The results will be assessed with validated tests and a questionnaire: before therapy, after the completed therapeutic program and 6 months after completion, which will allow for the assessment of long-term effectiveness. The results will contribute to the understanding of the development of motor lateralization and to the development of individualized rehabilitation approaches that promote effective use of the upper limbs, and improve the quality of life and independence of children with CP.