Effects of Sports Rehabilitation and Caregiver-Led Home-Based Exercise on Gross Motor Function and Therapy Engagement in Children with Developmental Disabilities

Jihun Hwang; Chunghwi Yi; Jongmin Lee

doi:10.33700/jhrs.5.1.205

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Open Access

Authors

Jihun Hwang Seoul National University Hospital https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6748-5865
Chunghwi Yi Yonsei University Mirae Campus https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2554-8083
Jongmin Lee SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1299-3105

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.205

Keywords:

developmental disabilities, sports rehabilitation, home-based exercise, gross motor function, participation, feasibility

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a hospital-based sports rehabilitation program (SRP) versus a home-based exercise program (HEP) on motor function, participation-related, and therapy engagement outcomes in children with developmental disabilities and to evaluate feasibility and safety.

Methods: This exploratory randomized pilot study allocated 16 children to SRP or HEP (1:1) using block randomization stratified by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level. Both interventions were delivered for 8 weeks. Outcomes included Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM-Performance/Satisfaction), Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ), and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS; T-score). A 2×2 mixed ANOVA (group × time) was used for most outcomes, and an independent t-test was used for GAS T-scores.

Results: Both groups showed significant improvements over time in GMFM and PBS (p < 0.001). Group-by-time interactions favored SRP for COPM–Performance (p = 0.038), COPM–Satisfaction (p = 0.025), and PVQ (p = 0.038). The GAS T-scores did not differ between the groups (p = 0.645). Feasibility criteria were met (≥75% adherence, fidelity, and exercise dose).

Conclusion: Both interventions were feasible and safe over 8 weeks. The SRP may confer greater benefits for participation-related outcomes. Future adequately powered trials with a longer follow-up period are warranted to confirm these findings.

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