Feasibility testing of a home-based exercise intervention in children with cerebral palsy who are ambulant—a study protocol of the HOME-EX study - Report - MDSpire

Feasibility testing of a home-based exercise intervention in children with cerebral palsy who are ambulant—a study protocol of the HOME-EX study

  • By

  • Trille Jakobsson

  • Katarina Lauruschkus

  • Björn A. Johnsson

  • Åsa Andersson

  • Ola Hansson

  • Robert Holmberg

  • Åsa B. Tornberg

  • May 12, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Evaluation of a Home-Based Exercise Program for Ambulatory Children with Cerebral Palsy

Overview

The HOME-EX study protocol outlines a feasibility study for a home-based exercise intervention using eHealth solutions for ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP-A). The study aims to assess the development, feasibility, and implementation conditions of this intervention to promote physical activity among children with CP-A.

Background

Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood, affecting motor skills and overall physical activity levels. Children with CP-A are significantly less active than their peers, which can lead to further health complications. Promoting physical activity through structured interventions is crucial for improving health outcomes in this population.

Data Highlights

The HOME-EX study will involve ten children with CP-A and ten without disabilities, aged 10–16 years, participating in two six-week home-based exercise periods with an eight-week washout in between. Data will be collected through various methods including field notes, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews.

Key Findings

  • The study employs a mixed methods approach informed by the behaviour change wheel framework.
  • Feasibility testing will assess the eHealth solution and home-based exercise intervention.
  • Children will engage in structured physical activity to meet WHO recommendations of at least 60 minutes per day.
  • Findings may enhance understanding of effective exercise interventions for children with CP-A.
  • The study aims to address the gap in physical activity levels among children with disabilities.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider the integration of eHealth solutions in promoting physical activity among children with CP-A. Structured home-based exercise programs can be an effective strategy to enhance physical activity levels and overall health in this population.

Conclusion

The HOME-EX study has the potential to provide valuable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of home-based exercise interventions for children with CP-A, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes.

Related Resources & Content

  1. NICE, Guidance, 2024 -- Overview | Cerebral palsy in under 25s: assessment and management
  2. DIGITAL HEALTH, 2026 -- A feasibility randomised controlled trial of an exergaming device aimed at improving mobility in children with cerebral palsy
  3. Effectiveness of Non-Immersive Virtual Reality on Gross Motor Function, Balance, and Functional Independence in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis - PubMed
  4. Pediatric Cardiology — Assessing the Viability of Customized Exercise Programs for Pediatric Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
  5. Pediatric Cardiology — Exercise Recommendations Improve Peak Oxygen Consumption and Anaerobic Threshold in Young Patients with Fontan Circulation and Single Ventricle Anatomy
  6. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine — Development and implementation of a HAPA-based exercise rehabilitation program for patients with chronic heart failure
  7. Overview | Cerebral palsy in under 25s: assessment and management | Guidance | NICE
  8. Effectiveness of Non-Immersive Virtual Reality on Gross Motor Function, Balance, and Functional Independence in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis - PubMed
  9. Barriers and Facilitators of Home Programmes in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review and a Metasynthesis | CoLab

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