Purpose: Describe the development and application of a progressive resistance exercise (PRE) program for children with cerebral palsy (CP), which became a standard care model at an urban specialty hospital network.
Summary of key points: Muscle structure and performance have been shown to impact function and participation in children with CP. Use of PRE to achieve function and participation goals is supported by a growing body of evidence. A novel guideline, focused on individualized, goal-focused PRE dosing, professional development, program monitoring, and outcome measures use, facilitated application of a new clinical practice.
Conclusions: Practice change was accomplished by translating evidence using a clinical guideline resulting in positive child function and participation outcomes.
Recommendations for clinical practice: This Special Communication provides an example of addressing goal-related muscle performance impairments in children with CP. Clinicians should consider updating long-standing physical therapy intervention strategies by incorporating goal-specific PRE into practice.
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