Date of Completion

Spring 5-1-2026

Thesis Advisor(s)

Sudha Srinivasan , Randall Walikonis

Honors Major

Physiology and Neurobiology

Disciplines

Other Rehabilitation and Therapy

Abstract

Cerebral Palsy is one of the most common causes of childhood motor disability. Children with cerebral palsy often experience impaired movement, posture, and balance (Vitrikas et al., 2020). A key factor in the success of upper extremity training for children with cerebral palsy is the frequency and intensity of therapy sessions (Jackman et al., 2020). However, these sessions can be expensive, time consuming, and often difficult to fit into home routines. These limitations have led to an increasing exploration of the effects of caregiver-led programs, bridging many of the gaps these barriers create. The efficacy of a play-based training program known as Strength and Power in Upper Extremities using Exploratory Driving (SPEED) was evaluated to determine its impact on improving upper extremity function in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. This study compared the SPEED program, which utilizes modified single-joystick operated ride-on toys, with a dose-matched therapy based on conventional occupational therapy called Creative Rehabilitation for Arm Function Training (CRAFT). The study was performed with 30 children, but I will report on a subset of 25 participants. The effectiveness of each intervention was determined by multiple measures, with my focus on the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST). This test was administered at pre-test, post-test, and a four-week follow-up. Both groups showed improvements in their QUEST scores, with the SPEED group showing a greater improvement in both the overall scores and the dissociated movements, grasps, and weight bearing subcategories of QUEST. The CRAFT group showed more improvement in the protective extension category than that of the SPEED group. These results suggest that SPEED is at least as effective as conventional therapy. Given its engaging nature and feasibility for home integration, SPEED provides a valuable therapeutic adjunct for children with unilateral cerebral palsy. 

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