Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Inclusion criteria were not specified in terms of the study design. It appears that studies of any design were eligible for inclusion in the review.
Specific interventions included in the review
Studies of static weight-bearing exercise, for upper or lower extremities, compared with no exercise were eligible for inclusion. Studies comparing static weight-bearing exercises with serial casting, medication or surgery were excluded. Where reported, the interventions in the included studies ranged from 4 weeks to 9 months in duration.
Participants included in the review
Studies of children (younger than 18 years) with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, regardless of type, severity or ambulatory status, were eligible for inclusion. The children in the included studies had hemiplegic, diplegic or quadriplegic cerebral palsy and were aged from 17 months to 14 years.
Outcomes assessed in the review
The author did not report any specific inclusion criteria relating to the outcomes. Studies reporting the following outcomes were included in the review: bone mineral density; prevention or reduction of hip dysplasia; passive joint range of movement; spasticity; bowel and urinary functions; self-esteem; communication; hand function; feeding. The included studies generally reported functional limitations, activity or impairment-related outcomes.
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
One reviewer selected studies for inclusion in the review.