Aim: The aim of this study is the determination of physical activity in everyday life of handicapped persons due to cerebral palsy using standardised testing procedures.
Method: The subjects were examined according to the Conconi test on a treadmill at increasing speeds for their fitness. We used a continuous heart rate monitoring, 3-axis acceleration sensors, lactate measurements and pedography.
Results: Three groups of subjects could be differentiated. In one group, a rapid rise in heart rate even at lower walking speed was observed. In a second group of persons with poor motor coordination, the maximum walking speed was limited. Single subjects were not limited neither in their physical performance nor in their condition.
Conclusion: In the physical therapy for patients with cerebral palsy one should not lose sight of possible cardiovascular limitations additional to the physical disabilities.
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.