Physical activity and exercise rehabilitation in pediatric cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study among physiotherapists in Kosovo and Albania

Ibrahimi Kaçuri, Dafinë; Prendi, Emanuela; Kamberi, Haxhi; Hoti, Flaka; Gergi, Zana; Krasniqi, Ermira; Gjini, Enkeleda; Hoxha, Malvina; Boshnjaku, Arben

Physical activity and exercise rehabilitation in pediatric cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study among physiotherapists in Kosovo and Albania

Files

Physical activity and exercise rehabilitation in pediatric cerebral palsy.pdf(501.51 KB)

Date

2026

Authors

Ibrahimi Kaçuri, Dafinë

Prendi, Emanuela

Kamberi, Haxhi

Hoti, Flaka

Gergi, Zana

Krasniqi, Ermira

Gjini, Enkeleda

Hoxha, Malvina

Boshnjaku, Arben

Publisher

Universidad de Murcia: Servicio de Publicaciones

Abstract

To improve physical functional capacity in people with cerebral palsy (CP), the rehabilitation workforce must be skilled in exercise physiology and load management to ensure evidence-based and participation-focused interventions. However, empirical data on clinical preparedness and practice patterns in Southeast Europe remain limited.To address this issue, this cross-sectional survey examined professional training, clinical experience, and the use of standardized physical activity assessments among 202 licensed physiotherapists in Kosovo and Albania(113 females, 55.9%; 89 males, 44.1%; mean age 29.7±7.0 years).The study utilized a structured questionnaire specifically designed to reflect local cultural and professional contexts. Results showed limited participation in specialized neurodevelopmental training and inconsistent use of validated assessment frameworks in both Kosovo (74.0%) and Albania (76.5%), with no biological sex differences. Recognition of ≥ 3 early clinical signs was significantly higher in Kosovo compared to Albania (80.0% vs. 64.7%, p=0.007). The use of early diagnostic tools was reported more frequently in Albania than in Kosovo (49.0% vs. 33.0%, p=0.021), with a significant sex difference observed only in Albania (p=0.005, φ=0.277; moderate effect), where females reported greater use. To improve health trajectories, future initiatives must focus on competency in loan management and motor learning. Implementing participation-focused exercise through interdisciplinary collaboration represents a vital strategy for evolving CP rehabilitation into proactive, physical activity centered model.

Keywords

Physical Activity , Physiotherapy , Pediatric Rehabilitation , Workforce Development , Cerebral Palsy

Citation

Boshnjaku, A., Ibrahimi Kaçuri, D., Prendi, E., Kamberi, H., Hoti, F., Gergi, Z., … Hoxha, M. (2026). Physical activity and exercise rehabilitation in pediatric cerebral palsy: A cross-sectional study among physiotherapists in Kosovo and Albania. SPORT TK-EuroAmerican Journal of Sport Sciences, 15, 48.