Effect of brain gym exercises on functional abilities in children with cerebral palsy.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of brain gym (BG) exercises on cognitive functions and motor coordination in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: 52 children with hemiplegic CP, ranging in age from 6 to 9, were randomized to either experimental or control groups. Both groups participated in a conventional physical therapy program, but the experimental group was provided with additional BG exercises. Cognitive functions and motor coordination were assessed as the primary outcomes, and quality of life (QoL) was evaluated as a secondary outcome, using computer-based RehaCom® software, Bruininks Oseretsky of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2), and Pediatric quality of life inventory (PedsQLTM) sequentially. RESULTS: Both BG and control groups showed significant increase in motor coordination and QoL immediately after treatment sessions, while cognitive functions showed significant improvement only in BG group. In addition, significant differences were observed when comparing groups in all measured outcomes in favor of the BG group. CONCLUSION: For children with hemiplegic CP, incorporating BG exercises into conventional physical therapy program may result in more notable enhancements in cognitive functions, motor coordination, and QoL.