Most children with cerebral palsy aren’t as physically active as other children because they don't have the same level of muscle strength and balance. Researchers at the University of Georgia need families like yours to join a new research study to learn more about ways to improve muscle strength and balance in children with cerebral palsy. Can you help?
“My child enjoys working with the University of Georgia research team. I would highly recommend participation in this research program."
- Parent of a Research Participant
A new University of Georgia no-cost study aims to improve muscle quality, strength and balance control in children with cerebral palsy. By standing on a small vibrating platform for 10 minutes a day—something that can be done at home as part of a family's regular routine—researchers plan to measure the effects on muscle development, balance and physical activity over a 12-month period.
Because of damage to areas of the brain that affect movement, people with cerebral palsy have problems maintaining their balance and participating in physical activity. Interventions such as vibration therapy may make a positive change in a child's quality of movement and life.
Study Eligibility:
- Is your child 5-11 years old?
- Does your child walk alone (without the use of a cane or crutches)?
- Does your child have spastic cerebral palsy?
If you answered Yes to the above questions, your child may be eligible to participate.
Compensation:
- Your child will receive $25 for each session completed (up to $50-$75 per visit).
- To compensate you for your trip, you will receive a travel stipend of $100-$130 per visit.
- If you are not local to the Athens-Atlanta area, we will provide hotel accommodations in Athens, Georgia.
To Learn More:
Email: sydni.whitten@uga.edu or Contact UGA Research Coordinator, Sydni Whitten, at 706-395-5085.
This lab promotional video represents the research activities conducted in the Neuromusculoskeletal Health Lab
"We are trying to determine if vibration improves the muscles and balance of children with cerebral palsy and leads to increased physical activity” said Christopher Modlesky, the researcher who is conducting the study with a $3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. “Physical activity is very low in children with cerebral palsy. If we can increase it, we may be able to improve their quality of life and may reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes and osteoporosis. However, until we conduct the necessary controlled studies, we will not know if vibration offers benefit to children with cerebral palsy. We need families of children with cerebral palsy to participate in research studies so we can develop the best ways to increase physical activity and improve health in children with cerebral palsy."
Christopher Modlesky, PhD
Georgia Athletic Association Professor in Kinesiology
Department of Kinesiology
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UGA Neuromuscular Health Lab
