Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Growth and Development Disorders in Pediatrics

Background : Hypocalcemia is the presence of low serum calcium levels in the blood. Normal blood calcium level is between 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL in children. Calcium is the most important abundant mineral in the body which is important for growth of bones, teeth and skeleton.Purpose: this study was conducted to compare the effect of aerobic exercise and calcium supplementation on serum calcium level in hypocalcemic children. Subjects: were assigned on 36 hypocalcemic children of both sexes, divided into two groups, eighteen in each group. Their ages ranged from 24-42 months. Their serum calcium level was below 6.5mg/dl & had delay in walking milstone matched with level I GMFCS.Study was conducted in out patient clinic for pediatrics in Helwan general hospital.Materials and Methods: Serum free total calcium & gross motor function measure (88) score of standing and walking domains were measured for all children before and after 12 weeks of intervention. Study Group (A): were participated in aerobic exercise program in a form of bicycle ergometer training program 3 times /week for 12weeks in addition to balanced daily diet calcium supplement and sun exposure. Control group (B): were treated with calcium supplementation in a form of calcium carbonate which was given teaspoonful once time daily in addition to balanced daily diet of calcium supplement and sun exposure.Result: Non significant difference in gross motor function measure (88) scoreing of standing and serum calcium level was recorded but there was significant increase in gross motor function measure (88) scoreing of walking in group (A) compared with group (B).Conclusion: this study concluded that aerobic exercise has a beneficial effect on walking ability in children with hypocalcemia

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