Thesis Project Form
Title (tentative): Motor training with adapted bicycles to improve performance in children and adolescents with disabilitiesThesis advisor(s): Pierella Camilla, Maura Casadio (maura.casadio@unige.it), Susanna Summa ( susanna.summa@opbg.net) | E-mail: |
Address: | Phone: |
Description
Motivation and application domain
In subjects with disabilities, play-motor activity is effective in improving participation and, more broadly, quality of life (QoL). A recent literature review (Thevarajah et al, 2022) highlights that Adaptive Cycling (ADC) improves motor functions and physical activity in children and adolescents with intellectual-motor disabilities. However, there is still limited evidence regarding the increase in participation after the use of ADC, especially due to the lack of data collected in ecological settings. Based on this hypothesis, researchers from OPBG conducted a pilot study on the impact of using Assistive Biking (BA) on the QoL of children/adolescents with intellectual-motor disabilities during the pandemic. Preliminary results have shown that ADC, through the use of BA, improves the child's functional outcome, harmonious development, communication and relationship skills, reduces the stress level of the family unit, and promotes the maintenance of an active lifestyle.
General objectives and main activities
The project proposal consists of a single-center uncontrolled intervention study using Assistive Biking (BA). The study aims to assess, quantitatively and through an evaluation protocol and motor training, the impact on motor performance, endurance, and quality of life (QoL) in children/adolescents with intellectual-motor. The student will collaborate with the team of Movement Analysis Robotics Laboratory of the U.O.C DH Neuroriabilitazione e Attivita? Sportiva Adattata.
Training Objectives (technical/analytical tools, experimental methodologies)
Study of the state of art
To use K5 Cosmed (IT) device
Data analysis
To use K5 Cosmed (IT) device
Data analysis
Place(s) where the thesis work will be carried out: IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital Roma and NeuroLab UNIGE
Additional information
Maximum number of students: 1