The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a group-based treadmill program on gross motor skills related to walking and the amount of support needed for ambulation in children with neuromotor impairment who are not yet walking. Twelve children (mean age, 30.4 months; standard deviation, 7.9) participated in the program twice per week for 14 weeks. The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 Dimensions D and E (GMFM-88 D/E), the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), the timed 10-m walk test, and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Mobility Scale (PEDI) were administered before and at the conclusion of the program. Data were analyzed using paired the t test and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test. Statistically significant improvements were found between pre- and posttests in the GMFM-88 D (P = .0005) and E (P = .001), in FMS scores (P = .039), and the PEDI (P = .001).
A group-based treadmill program leads to positive changes in walking ability in children with neuromotor impairment.