Physical Therapy for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of medical disorders that affect coordination and body movements. Symptoms of cerebral palsy are typically noticed in the first year or two or a child's life. According to United Cerebral Palsy, about 70 percent of people with cerebral palsy are born with the condition. In other cases, the condition can be caused by a brain injury during birth, other brain injuries or severe infections. Cerebral palsy has no cure, but treatment can help people with the condition become more mobile. In many cases, physical therapy is a key component of a treatment plan.

Starting Treatment

• Because physical therapy is often critical to helping a child with cerebral palsy maximize his physical potential, treatment often begins immediately after diagnosis. Even from an early age a physical therapist can work with a child with cerebral palsy to develop muscles and teach the child more effective ways to balance and move. How often a person will need to see a physical therapist depends on the severity of the impairment. Treatment usually continues for several years.

Benefits

• Physical therapists also work with patients to prevent problems in the musculoskeletal system and muscle contractures, which causes large muscles to become stiff and rigid and fixed in an unnatural position. In some cases, the physical therapist may recommend braces, splints or other devices to help maximize a child's physical movement and development.

Therapy Activities

• The activities and exercises your physical therapist uses depends on the severity of the cerebral palsy and the child's physical limitations. For example, therapists can work with patients to teach them to walk or stand on their own. In cases where mobility is limited, they can work with patients to teach them how to properly use a wheelchair. Many times therapists will also work with patients on exercises designed to enhance range of motion and prevent muscle problems. Many physical therapists design their exercises to be fun for kids to keep them active and engaged in the therapy.