A RECENT study explores the potential of school-based rebound therapy to improve chest health, motor function, and quality of life in children with neurodisability and respiratory issues. The research, conducted over 18 weeks, involved five children aged 5-15 years who participated in individualized rebound therapy sessions twice a week for six weeks. The findings suggest improvements in motor ability, with trends of enhanced chest health and quality of life reported by parents and caregivers.
Rebound therapy, which utilizes trampolines to facilitate movement and improve physical function, has been increasingly considered as an alternative intervention for children with complex neurodisabilities. This study implemented a single-case ABA design, carefully tracking changes across three phases: baseline, intervention, and follow-up. Researchers assessed chest health through serial weekly observations, along with parent-reported outcomes and clinician assessments of motor ability.
The results showed noticeable improvements in motor function following the therapy, with some evidence suggesting positive changes in respiratory health and overall well-being. However, these improvements were not exclusive to the intervention phase, raising questions about other influencing factors. While parents and caregivers reported better chest health and quality of life, the absence of clear clinical thresholds in measurement tools limited the ability to determine the statistical significance of these findings.
Despite these limitations, the study highlights the feasibility of implementing rebound therapy in school settings for children with neurodisability. The co-design approach ensured an inclusive and adaptable intervention, providing valuable insights into how such therapies can be integrated into routine care. Future research with larger sample sizes and standardized assessment tools will be essential to confirm the clinical impact of rebound therapy on respiratory health.
Reference: Lozano RK et al. Evaluating the impact of school-based rebound therapy on chest health in children and young people with neurodisability and respiratory issues: a series of single case studies. Disabil Rehabil. 2025:1-12.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
