Pediatric Therapeutic Interventions Flashcards

The proposed main therapeutic mechanism of hippotherapy for children with CP is that the horse's movement:

Answer: Gives rhythmic, multidimensional pelvic input similar to human gait

The horse's walk moves the rider's pelvis in a 3D pattern like human walking, challenging postural control.

A child with neuromuscular disease and weak respiratory muscles stands chest-deep in a pool. What effect should the therapist expect?

Answer: Higher work of breathing from hydrostatic pressure on the chest wall

Hydrostatic pressure compresses the chest wall and shifts blood centrally, which increases the work of breathing in children with weak respiratory muscles.

After botulinum toxin injections to the gastrocnemius, when is the best window to emphasize casting, stretching, and strengthening?

Answer: About 2-6 weeks after injection, during peak effect

Botulinum toxin peaks at roughly 2-6 weeks, which gives a window to gain range and strengthen while tone is lower.

After selective dorsal rhizotomy for spastic diplegia, which is the primary focus of intensive rehabilitation?

Answer: Strengthening and motor control training, since weakness becomes apparent once spasticity is reduced

Lower spasticity reveals underlying weakness, so post-SDR rehab centers on strengthening and functional motor training.

For hip health in a nonambulatory child with CP (GMFCS IV-V), which supported standing dosage does evidence support?

Answer: 60 minutes daily with hips in about 30-60 degrees of total abduction

Evidence-based standing recommendations (Paleg et al.) suggest about 60 minutes daily in 30-60 degrees of hip abduction for hip stability.

What is the first-line intervention for a 2-month-old with mild positional plagiocephaly?

Answer: Repositioning strategies and supervised tummy time

Repositioning and supervised tummy time come first, and helmets are considered for moderate-severe cases that persist, usually around 4-6 months.

Which strategy most effectively improves family adherence to a home exercise program?

Answer: Building activities into the family's daily routines, matched to family priorities

Family-centered programs built into daily routines are more feasible and get better adherence.