Electronic Sensory Aids as Treatment for Cerebral-Palsied Children: Inapproprioception: Part II

Abstract

A new approach to treatment of children with athetoid cerebral palsy has been developed using electronic sensory aids to improve kinesthetic monitoring of the head and limbs. In this article, the theory underlying this approach is related to the concept of inapproprioception. The electronic sensory aids and accessory devices used in the treatment program are described, as are the therapeutic activities which the children undertake while wearing the sensory aids. Exteroceptive systems (auditory and visual) are used as information carriers substituting for the proprioceptive system. The artificial sense organs built for this purpose convert movements of the head and limbs to proportionately varying electrical signals and thence to corresponding auditory and visual signals. The children are automatically reinforced for using these signals to establish control during postural and movement activities. Improvements in postural stability and in control of voluntary movements are observed within a few weeks of treatment, as illustrated in sample strip-chart recordings of movements made by the children. Cumulative improvements over weekly and then monthly periods of treatment are documented objectively in duration histograms summarizing such data.