Various Treatment Techniques for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal sections within the brain that are in charge of controlling movement within the muscles, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This condition appears within early childhood and while it does permanently damage muscle coordination and movement, it does not worsen as the individual ages. While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, there are treatments that can improve the quality of life for a child and adult with this condition.

Physical Therapy

• Perhaps one of the most vital treatments for those with cerebral palsy is physical therapy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Physical therapy can improve mobility, strength and balance within those with CP, which can help support the transition to a more independent life. By performing regular stretching exercises, the range of motion within joints may be restored or maintained, which will reduce the development of joint contractures, or immobility within the joints. The Mayo Clinic states that physical therapy can begin immediately after muscle tone abnormalities are detected and this therapy can last for several years.

Music and Dance Therapy

• Musical and dance therapies are beneficial for children with cerebral palsy because they allow the child to develop communication skills as well as develop motor skills and movement coordination. Music therapy will allow the child to express her feelings as well as stimulate the development of creativity and communication, according to Jesse's Foundation for Music and Dance Therapy. Dancing is a fun and entertaining therapy which involves the body moving numerous parts at one time. By incorporating the limbs of the body, children with CP are able to practice movement within a creative and non-threatening environment. The American Dance Therapy Association, or ADIA, states that dance therapy can improve the cognitive, emotional and social skills of individuals.

Surgery

• Surgical options are used to loosen stiff muscles as well as correct skeletal growth issues, such as uneven legs. Cerebral palsy surgeries can also help spastic muscles by implanting a small medicine pump within the spinal cord to transport medications to these nerves, which will help enhance muscle tone. Surgeries are not only used to help introduce medications into the body, but they can also be used to correct the positioning of arms, muscles and tendons to help improve movement and decrease the likelihood of further surgeries as the child grows older, according to the Mayo Clinic.