The current modalities in managing
spastic children have some limitations; thus, alternative therapeutic agents are in need. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether intramuscular
botulinum toxin type A administration may be an alternative agent in the treatment of children with
cerebral palsy. Eighteen children who were aged between 3 and 17 years and manifested
cerebral palsy were administered intramuscular
botulinum toxin type A with a total dose of 6 U/kg
body weight. Outcome measurements were determined with four methods, including Ashworth Spasticity Scale, standardized videotape assessments, observational gait analysis, and walking velocity. Ashworth Spasticity Scale and videotape assessments were statistically significant before and
after treatment in all muscles (P < 0.001). The best improvement in video gait analysis was evident at week 8. The
botulinum toxin type A injections yielded an improved walking velocity at all visits. The observational gait analysis and walking velocity demonstrated an improvement
after treatment in the gastrocnemius-injected group (P < 0.001). In conclusion, intramuscular
botulinum toxin type A administration may be effective in children with
cerebral palsy, especially at week 4 and when injected in gastrocnemius.