Gait parameters
A high level RCT (Johnston et al, 2011) compared the effects of supported speed treadmill training exercise program (SSTEP) to exercise on gait parameters. Both groups improved with respect to all spatiotemporal gait parameters but no between group differences were noted. Gait speed improved in both groups but only the SSTEP group maintained improvements after wash-out.
Conclusion: There is moderate evidence (level 1b) from one high quality RCT demonstrating that treadmill training has a positive effect on gait parameters however it is not necessarily more effective than conventional therapy.
Spasticity
A high level RCT (Johnston et al, 2011) compared the effects of supported speed treadmill training exercise program (SSTEP) to exercise on spasticity. No significant between or intra group differences pre/post with respect to spasticity.
A high level RCT (Chrysagis et al, 2012) examined the effect of a treadmill training program on spasticity as compared to conventional physical therapy. No significant findings regarding spasticity reduction were found in the study.
A systematic review (Willoughby et al, 2009) suggests that treadmill training in children with cerebral palsy has no effect on muscle tone.
Conclusion: There is strong evidence (level 1a) from two high quality RCTs demonstrating that treadmill training does not have any positive effects on spasticity.
Strength
A high level RCT (Johnston et al, 2011) compared the effects of supported speed treadmill training exercise program (SSTEP) to exercise on strength. No significant between or intra group differences pre/post with respect to strength.
A pre-post study (Krux et al, 2011) examined the effects of body weight supported treadmill training in children with cerebral palsy. No effects on lower extremity were found after intervention.
Conclusion: There is moderate evidence (level 1b) from one high quality RCT demonstrating that treadmill training does not have any positive effects on lower extremity strength.
