Benefits of a Low-Cost Walking Device in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Qualitative Study

Isabel Rodríguez-Costa, Irene De la Cruz-López, Ignacio Fernández-Zárate, Saturnino Maldonado-Bascón, Sergio Lafuente-Arroyo and Susana Nunez-Nagy
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Isabel Rodríguez-Costa: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
Irene De la Cruz-López: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
Ignacio Fernández-Zárate: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
Saturnino Maldonado-Bascón: Department of Signal Theory and Communications, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
Sergio Lafuente-Arroyo: Department of Signal Theory and Communications, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
Susana Nunez-Nagy: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Spain

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 6, 1-9

Abstract: Children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) participate less regularly in physical and social activities. Support walkers allow mobility for infants who need aid. The aim of this study is to explore the benefits of a low-cost walking device in children with CP. A qualitative study using semi-structured, face-to-face interviews was conducted. Eight participants (two parents, two educational professionals, and four physical therapists) who live or work with children with CP that use a low-cost walking device were questioned to examine the benefits of the practice. Thematic analysis denoted three key factors about the benefits: emotional welfare, physical wellbeing, and social enjoyment. To conclude, the use of a support walker in children with CP makes them feel happier, improves their self-confidence and autonomy, and promotes participation.

Keywords: low-cost technology; self-help device; cerebral palsy; qualitative research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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