The introduction of Petra Running-bikes: a pilot study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The introduction of Petra running-bikes to encourage and facilitate weight-bearing exercise for children with cerebral palsy who are unable to walk independently: a pilot study
IRAS ID
123566
Contact name
Elizabeth Bryant
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sussex NHS Research Consortium
Research summary
Cerebral palsy (CP) is an umbrella term used for disabilities resulting from damage to the brain in the early stages of development and causing motor (movement) difficulties. Poor physical mobility results in reduced weight-bearing activity and since weight-bearing activity is essential for normal bone development, these children are more likely to develop osteoporosis (bone thinning).
The benefit of weight-bearing exercise for typically developing children is well documented, in terms of improvements observed in muscle strength, bone health and functional ability. This pilot study will introduce a novel mobility device, Petra running-bikes, to a group of children with CP who are unable to walk independently to investigate whether it is a feasible and enjoyable mode of weight-bearing exercise facilitating their participation in physical activity. Running-bikes have a unique design with postural supports enabling non-ambulant children to weight-bear in a supported position. As opposed to a pedalling system the user sits on the saddle and propels themselves forward by contact with his/her feet on the ground.
A minimum of twelve children with CP, aged 4-12 years, will be recruited to the study to trial the running-bikes for twelve weeks (one school term). Each child will be provided with a running-bike appropriately sized and individually adapted according to their requirements. The children will use the running-bikes within their specialist schools three times a week.
At the end of the trial the physiotherapists and children will be interviewed to find out their views and experiences of using the running-bike. Any changes in bone status, motor function (mobility), quality of life and ability to use the running-bike will be investigated.
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/0577
Date of REC Opinion
6 Jun 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion