Journal of pediatric rehabilitation medicine
Audio Summaries

Clinical characteristics, functional impact and caregivers' priorities in Malaysian children with dystonic cerebral palsy

May 6, 2026

This study investigates the clinical characteristics, functional impact, and caregivers' priorities for children with dystonic cerebral palsy in Malaysia. By analyzing a sample of 50 children, the authors found a significant correlation between the severity of dystonia and its functional impact, highlighting that caregivers prioritize concerns beyond just gross motor and mobility issues. The findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions that address the specific needs of these children and their families.

The concerns of mothers of female youth with physical disabilities in transitioning to adulthood: A qualitative study

May 5, 2026

This qualitative study aimed to explore the concerns and coping strategies of mothers of female youth with physical disabilities as their daughters transition to adulthood. Through interviews with 21 mothers, five key themes emerged regarding their worries about fostering independence, empowerment, relationships, health, and legal adulthood. The findings highlight the challenges these mothers face and the strategies they employ to support their daughters amidst these concerns.

Face-to-face vs. telerehabilitation for thoracic hyperkyphosis in children- A randomized controlled pilot study

Apr 29, 2026

This pilot study aimed to compare the effectiveness of face-to-face rehabilitation versus telerehabilitation for treating thoracic hyperkyphosis in children aged 9-12 years. Both approaches led to improvements in thoracic kyphosis angle, back extensor muscle strength, and discomfort, with no significant differences between the two methods. The findings suggest that telerehabilitation could be a viable alternative for pediatric rehabilitation in this context.

Psychosocial outcomes of medical specialty camps for children with physical disabilities

Apr 28, 2026

This paper investigates the psychosocial outcomes of medical specialty camps for children with physical disabilities, aiming to determine their impact on well-being, self-esteem, and social connections. The review of 33 studies indicates that these camps can lead to significant improvements in quality of life and empowerment, although questions about the long-term benefits and the need for control data remain. The authors highlight the importance of further research to better understand the lasting effects of such camps and to identify effective components for future studies.

Impact of optimized AFOs on functional outcomes in children with spastic cerebral palsy

Apr 24, 2026

This study aimed to evaluate the immediate functional impact of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) designed using the Optimal Segment Kinematics and Alignment approach (OSKAR method) compared to standard AFOs in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. The results indicated that while the OSKAR AFOs significantly improved balance as measured by the Pediatric Balance Scale, other functional outcomes remained comparable between the two orthotic types. The authors suggest that OSKAR AFOs may enhance functional balance and warrant further research to confirm their effectiveness.

Rehabilitation approaches used for children with spinal muscular atrophy: A scoping review based on the F-words framework

Apr 22, 2026

This scoping review aims to evaluate the rehabilitation approaches used for children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in light of recent medical advancements. The authors systematically analyzed 71 reports on SMA rehabilitation, finding a predominant focus on interventions targeting impairments, while highlighting the need for a more holistic approach that incorporates the F-words framework and emphasizes the involvement of children and families in the rehabilitation process.

Growing stronger: Nine decades of physical disability representation in children's media and implications for pediatric rehabilitation

Apr 9, 2026

This study investigates how the representation of physical disability in children's media has evolved over nine decades and its implications for pediatric rehabilitation. By analyzing 68 media productions from 1933 to 2025, the authors found a significant increase in positive portrayals of disability, especially after 2000, suggesting that these affirming representations can be leveraged by rehabilitation providers to enhance therapeutic engagement and reduce stigma.

Disability education in pediatric rehabilitation medicine physicians: A survey study

Apr 8, 2026

This study investigates the experiences and opinions of pediatric rehabilitation medicine (PRM) physicians regarding disability education during their medical training. The findings reveal a significant lack of structured disability education, with most respondents advocating for a formal curriculum to enhance their ability to care for children with disabilities and engage in advocacy. The authors highlight the need for standardized disability education to improve the competencies of PRM physicians in this area.

Pediatrician reported experiences of transitioning adolescents with disabilities

Mar 20, 2026

This study aimed to explore pediatricians' experiences and practices related to the transition of adolescents with disabilities from pediatric to adult health care. The findings revealed that while many pediatricians engage in essential transition-related activities, they also face significant barriers that hinder their ability to provide comprehensive transition services. The authors emphasize the need to address both practice and systemic challenges to improve the transition process for these patients.

Psychometric Evaluation of Sexual Knowledge and Self-Efficacy Components of the SPARKS Survey for Adults with Spina Bifida

Mar 11, 2026

This study aimed to evaluate the internal consistency and construct validity of a newly developed survey measuring sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge and self-efficacy in adults with spina bifida. The findings indicated that the self-efficacy scales for partner and provider communication demonstrated excellent reliability and validity, while the SRH knowledge scale showed low internal consistency, suggesting a need for refinement to better assess knowledge variability among individuals.