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

Authors

  • Arben Boshnjaku Faculty of Medicine, University “Fehmi Agani” in Gjakova, Kosovo https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4343-9366
  • Dafinë Ibrahimi Kaçuri Faculty of Medicine, University “Fehmi Agani” in Gjakova, Kosovo
  • Emanuela Prendi Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Tirana, Albania
  • Haxhi Kamberi Faculty of Medicine, University “Fehmi Agani” in Gjakova, Kosovo
  • Flaka Hoti Faculty of Medicine, University “Fehmi Agani” in Gjakova, Kosovo
  • Zana Gergi Faculty of Medicine, University “Fehmi Agani” in Gjakova, Kosovo
  • Ermira Krasniqi Faculty of Pharmacy, Alma Mater Europaea Campus College Rezonanca, Prishtina, Kosovo
  • Enkeleda Gjini Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good, Tirana, Albania
  • Malvina Hoxha Department of Chemical-Toxicological and Pharmacological Evaluation of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Tirana, Albania

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.711571

Keywords:

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

Abstract

To improve physical functional capacity in people with cerebral palsy (CP), the rehabilitation workforce must be proficient in exercise physiology and load management, ensuring that interventions are both evidence-based and participation-focused. Currently, empirical data on the clinical preparedness and practice patterns remain scarce in the Southeast European region. To address this issue, this cross-sectional survey examined professional training, clinical experience, and 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.

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Published

28-05-2026

How to Cite

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. https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.711571

Issue

Vol. 15 (2026)

Section

Articles

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