Relationship between walking efficiency and muscular strength of the lower limbs in children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

[Purpose] In children with cerebral palsy, despite increases in muscle strength after strengthening, improvements in walking efficiency are inconsistent in previous studies. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between walking efficiency and muscle strength in children with cerebral palsy. [Participants and Methods] Twenty-six children with cerebral palsy participated in this study. Isometric muscle strength in the lower extremities and the Total Heart Beat Index were measured. Participants were divided into the high and low walking efficiency groups based on the median Total Heart Beat Index value (2.06 beats/m). [Results] For all participants, all isometric muscle strength values were significantly correlated with the Total Heart Beat Index. In the high walking efficiency group, there was no significant correlation. All isometric muscle strength values in the low walking efficiency group were significantly correlated with the Total Heart Beat Index, except for that of the hip extensors. [Conclusion] The influence of muscular strength on walking efficiency in children with cerebral palsy varied. Significant correlations were observed only for those in the low walking efficiency group. The walking efficiency level should be confirmed before planning muscle strength training to improve walking efficiency.