• Level of impairment, functional independence [ Time Frame: 4 years ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
  

A randomized control trial to test the efficacy of constraint-induced movement therapy and a new treatment involving bimanual (Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy (HABIT). The protocols have been developed at Columbia University to be child friendly and draws upon our experience since 1998 with constraint-induced movement therapy in children with cerebral palsy. The interventions are performed in a 15 day day-camp setting with several children and at least one therapist per child. The aim is to promote the use of and improve the coordination of movement of both hands together. PARTICIPATION IS FREE. Please check out our website for more information: http://www.tc.edu/centers/cit/

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1) ability to extend the wrist at least 20º and the fingers at least 10degs at the metacarpophalangeal joints from full flexion, 2) a 50% difference between the involved and non-involved hand on the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function provided twice during screening, 3) score within one standard deviation from the mean on the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test, and 4) willingness to agree to intervention and testing procedures and travel to the University for participation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• 1) health problems not associated with CP, 2) seizures, 3) visual problems that would interfere with carrying out the intervention or testing, 4) severe muscle tone (Modified Ashworth score > 3.5) orthopedic surgery on their involved upper extremity, 6) a dorsal rhizotomy, 7) botulinum toxin therapy in the upper extremity musculature during the last six months or who wish to receive it within the period of study, 8) intrathecal Baclofen, and finally, 9) balance problems.