Upper extremity functional changes following selective posterior rhizotomy in children with cerebral palsy.

Spasticity in children with cerebral palsy may inhibit function and reduce progress in therapy. Selective posterior rhizotomy, a neurosurgical procedure, has been found to effectively reduce spasticity in selected cases. The literature suggests that positive changes in upper extremity function results from this surgery. At the Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, all candidates for this surgery are screened by the neuromotor clinic team, which includes an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, and a physical therapist. This paper outlines the specific changes seen in the upper extremity functions of 7 children over a 12-month period following their surgeries. The data collected suggest the children had improved function in activities of daily living, play skills, balance, and endurance. This paper focuses on the changes in activities of daily living and recommends future direction for research in this area.