A study combing a Russian space suit and aggressive physical therapy has helped children with cerebral palsy increase movement and motor function. The impressive results of this study should have it spreading to Pennsylvania and other states nationwide.
The TheraSuit was originally designed for Russian Cosmonauts but was bought to the United States by two Russian physical therapists to aid with their daughter's cerebral palsy. The suit works by keeping the body properly aligned and applying compression to muscle through a series of bungee cords. Pressure applied by the cords enables patients to better feel their body which provides stabilization and normalizes gait. The suit also helps to improve balance and coordination, while supporting weak muscles. While in the suit the children are engaged in specific and aggressive physical therapy that lasts up to four hours day, five days a week. A typical therapy session for a cerebral palsy patient may be an hour a day, three times a week.
The pilot program ended with exceptional results. Improvements were seen in strength, coordination, balance, movement control and range of motion. Over 90% of participants experienced functional improvements and learned to roll independently, 75% are now sitting without assistance, and almost 40% are standing on their own. Over 20% learned to walk independently and over 30% can walk with assisted devices. Studies are currently being conducted to see how the suit and therapy can be used to assist those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, developmental delays, strokes, low muscle tone and ataxia.
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