ABSTRACT
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruption of follow-up evaluations, physiotherapy and Botulinum toxin treatment (BoNT A) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this study was to determine the changes in pain, spasticity level and range of motion in children with spastic CP after the COVID-19 stay-at- home period. Patients and methods: Fifteen children (GMFCS level I-IV, aged 4-12 years) with spastic CP were enrolled in this study. All received BoNT A treatment in October/November 2019, which was followed by physiotherapy. Their next appointments were scheduled for March and April 2020. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, all of the treatments were canceled, and the children were sent home and advised to perform home-based exercise programs. The children were able to have their next regular check-up in October 2020. Assessments of range of motion (ROM), spasticity and pain levels were done, and the data was compared with data from 2019. Results: The pain and spasticity severity of the participants were significantly increased during the 10-12 months stay-at- home period. Range of motion was significantly decreased, especially dorsiflexion of the foot. Joint contractures and hip dislocation were noted in three cases. Conclusion: The study participants did not comply with the home exercise program in a satisfactory manner. The COVID-19 pandemic has made a detrimental effect on ROM, spasticity and pain in children with CP. Telerehabilitation and online communication with health professionals should be at a higher level in Serbia.