AIM: To examine the effects of an upper-extremity, community-based, and power-training intervention. METHODS: Twelve participants with cerebral palsy (CP) (8 males, 4 females; mean age 14 years 6 months (SD 5 years 4 months), range 7 to 24) were randomly assigned to a rest-training (RT; n = 6) or training-rest (n = 6) group in this randomized, cross-over design. Training took place in participants' home or school, three times per week for 6 weeks. We examined changes in upper extremity average power output (Pavg) in watts (W) and changes in function via the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI). RESULTS: Each participant completed at least 15 of the 18 total training sessions (91.2% adherence). Pavg increased 92.2% on average among participants (p < 0.05). There was a significant three-way interaction among treatment, sequence, and period with the data stratified by (Bimanual Fine Motor Function (BFMF)) level on the pain subscale of the PODCI (p = 0.0118). All participants decreased pain after training with the exception of individuals with lower functioning (BFMF II to V) in the RT group. CONCLUSION: A community-based upper extremity power-training intervention was feasible and effective at improving power among young people with CP and has the potential to improve pain.
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