Effects of Functional Partial Body Weight Support Treadmill Training on Mobility in Children with Ataxia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: Ataxia is quite common in pediatric neuromotor disorders and has a highly heterogeneous etiology. Mobility difficulties and functional limitations reflect the lack of coordination in this population. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of an intensive program of Functional Partial Body Weight Support Treadmill Training (FPBWSTT) on the mobility and functionality of children with ataxia. Methods: Through a stratified randomized control trial, a sample of 18 children with progressive and non-progressive ataxia and GMFCS II-IV (mean age: 14 years; standard deviation: 2.5) was assessed prior to the intervention, post-intervention, and 2 months after its end. Motor and functional skills were assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM, items D-E), the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), a 10 m walk test (10 MWT), a 6 min walk test (6 MWT), the Scale for Assessment and Rating Ataxia (SARA), the TimedUp and Go (TUG) test, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and kinetic and kinematic variables of the pelvis and lower limb. Results: Statistically significant interactions and changes in favor of the FPBWSTT were found in all functional assessments and spatiotemporal gait parameters (p < 0.05), the majority of which were maintained for two months. There was no statistical interaction or change in kinematic parameters (p > 0.05), while kinetic variables were insufficiently collected and were not statistically analyzed. Conclusions: The FPBWSTT is more effective on the mobility and functionality of children with ataxia who are 8–18 years old, compared to typical physiotherapy. Kinematic variables may not be sensitive indicators of change over a short period of time and/or in this population.