OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of backward walking training and forward walking training on spatiotemporal gait parameters, and gross motor function measures in children with cerebral palsy. DESIGN: Randomized controlled clinical trial. SETTING: Physical therapy clinics. SUBJECTS: A total of 30 children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy of both sexes (10 to 14 years of age, classified as I or II by gross motor function classification system) participated in this study. They were randomly assigned into two equal groups. INTERVENTIONS: Both groups received a conventional physical therapy program for 12 successive weeks (three sessions per week). The experimental group additionally received (25 min) backward walking training. The control group additionally received (25 min) forward walking training. OUTCOME MEASURES: Baseline, posttreatment, and follow-up assessment for spatiotemporal gait parameters and gross motor functions were evaluated by using three dimensional gait analysis system and gross motor function measures. RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in step length, walking velocity, cadence, stance phase, and swing phase percentage and gross motor function measures (dimensions D and E) of the experimental group (0.55 +/- 0.16, 0.53 +/- 0.19, 121.73 +/- 2.89, 54.73 +/- 1.67, 44.40 +/- 1.40, 90.20 +/- 6.44, 82.47 +/- 12.82), respectively, than the control group (0.39 +/- 0.13, 0.46 +/- 0.20, 125.80 +/- 2.96, 50.27 +/- 1.62, 49.47 +/- 1.55, 82.47 +/- 7.05, 80.47 +/- 12.61), respectively (p < 0.05). The significant improvement of all measured outcomes of the experimental group was maintained at 1 month follow-up assessment (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In addition to a conventional physical therapy program, backward walking training is more effective than forward walking training on spatiotemporal gait parameters, and gross motor function measures in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.

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