ABSTRACT
Objective: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the daily lives of children with physical disabilities and their families have significantly been affected. This study aimed at identifying potential healthcare issues through child wellbeing, continuity of rehabilitation and medical care, and parental concerns during the first full lockdown in France. Design: Cross-sectional study. Method: The French national survey ECHO was developed by a multidisciplinary group and disseminated in France from the 6th of April 2020, via internet. This online survey was addressed to the parents of children with physical disabilities, aged from zero to 18 years. It explored the experiences of children and their families during lockdown. Information regarding the child's well-being, rehabilitation and family organisation was collected. Results: The children (mean age 9.5 ±4.8 years) mostly had cerebral palsy (42%). Negative effects on morale (43% of the children), behaviour (38% of the children) and social interactions (no contact with other children for 62%) were reported. Sixty-five percent of the children stopped physical activities. Medical follow-up was maintained for 49%. Of the rehabilitation disciplines, physiotherapy and occupational therapy were continued for 49% and 27% of children respectively. Physiotherapy was performed by the parents for 40% of children. The main parental concern was the lack of rehabilitation (70%) and they complained of a lack of help (60%). Conclusion: This study highlighted substantial effects on the health of children with physical disabilities and loss of opportunity with massive interruption of medical follow up and rehabilitation. Regular assessment of the health benefit/ risk is essential to support families and ensure continuity of care during the pandemic.