Theoretical Basis of the Use of High-Tech Rehabilitation Means in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to substantiate theoretically the need in high-tech rehabilitation tools for children with cerebral palsy, to identify the shortcomings of their use and to determine the role of the equipment in correcting the pathological stereotype of movement. Materials and methods. Methodological approach was used: analysis of literature sources and resources of the Internet (foreign and domestic on the PubMed and Google Scholar platforms), method of system analysis, method of comparison. Results and discussion. One of the main goals in the process of rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy is to improve motor control and, thus, increase independence, participation and overall quality of life. In the modern world, the use of new methods of exercise therapy using high-tech robotic devices («Lokomat», «Armeo»), as well as new methods of physiotherapy, in particular, translingual electrical stimulation of the brain (TESB) «Brain-port» is becoming relevant for the treatment of children with cerebral palsy. Features and some restrictions of use of the above-stated devices were defined. Exercises on the Lokomat device help to form a motor "stereotype" of physiological walking, as well as strengthen the muscles of the lower extremities, and with the help of biological feedback to increase the motivation to exercise in children. The therapeutic goals of Armeo are to improve or maintain reach, capture and transmission movements, active range of motion by attaching an exoskeleton to the patient's arm. Translingual neurostimulation plays an important role in modulating neuroplastic changes in the brain, provides electrical stimulation of trigeminal and facial cranial nerves that modulate sensorimotor and vestibular functions. The devices help to improve the static and dynamic function of the body, reduce muscle tone, improve joint mobility in children with cerebral palsy. Their use in the process of physical therapy emphasizes the need for individualization of rehabilitation programs. Conclusion. The analysis of literature sources testifies to the effectiveness of the use of high-tech tools in the process of rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy in combination with traditional methods. It helps to improve motor and cognitive function in children with cerebral palsy by correcting the mechanism of musculoskeletal control. Robotic techniques allow to change the pathological stereotype of movement. The prospect is to study the psychophysiological parameters of children with cerebral palsy during rehabilitation using modern technologies