Intensive Rehabilitation Program With Task-oriented Therapy After Low-burden Orthopedic Surgery in a Child With Cerebral Palsy: A Single-case Experimental Design

Background: Children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) often undergo orthopedic surgery for muscle contractures, followed by rehabilitation to restore mobility. Evidence on intensive rehabilitation with task-oriented therapy (TOT) after low-burden orthopedic surgery is limited. Objects: This study examined the effects of a 16-week intensive rehabilitation program incorporating TOT in a child with spastic CP who received hamstring and adductor lengthening. Methods: A single-case experimental design was used. Assessments included range of motion (ROM), the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), and the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ). The participant received structured rehabilitation with TOT 5 times per week for 16 weeks. Results: Improvements were observed in hip abduction ROM, popliteal angle, GMFM, and CHAQ. A previously unachievable task, reaching a walker and walking to a sofa, became independently achievable, representing a meaningful gain in functional mobility. Conclusion: Intensive rehabilitation with TOT after low-burden orthopedic surgery may yield clinically meaningful improvements in motor function and daily activity performance, and support greater independence in children with CP.