Arm Exercises for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that effects body movement and muscle coordination. A person with cerebral palsy is typically weaker than the average person. Therefore, exercising can be very beneficial to the CP patient. However, the severity of CP varies case to case. This means there is no one general set of exercises for a person with CP to do. Each exercise program should be built around the individual's abilities.

Speak to a Professional

• A therapist should be able to create an exercise program for you or your child with CP that keeps age, limitations and safety in mind. Ask your doctor about therapy. If he feels therapy would beneficial he will write a prescription for therapy and recommend a resource.
  Your therapist should work with you on building an exercise program which strengthens weak muscles and stretches tight muscles, while at the same time helps you work toward your goals. If you want to build upper body strength, talk to your therapist about arm exercises that would be appropriate for you to do. For your safety, consult your therapist before doing exercises on your own.

Dumbbell Arm Exercises

• Different dumbbell arm exercises are possibilities for people with CP. Bicep curls and dumbbell chest presses are examples of arm exercises somebody with CP can do. Even a person bound to a wheelchair can do dumbbell exercises.
  If you are lifting weights while standing, make sure to have your feet sturdily planted on the floor to prevent yourself from losing your balance and falling.
  When lifting weights, keep in mind the basics of working out, especially the warmup and cool down. Make sure to stretch yourself well during the warmup.
  One stretch you can do for your arms is to raise one arm over your body. Take your opposite hand and place the hand above your elbow and hold for 15 to 20 seconds.
  You can do dumbbell arm exercises at a regular gym, in the comfort of your own home or at a specialized facility.

Swimming

• Swimming is a great activity for those with cerebral palsy. The water helps to relax the muscles, relieving tension normally placed on the body. Doing laps across the pool practically works all muscles in the body, including the arms. For safety purposes, always make sure there is proper supervision around the swimming pool when you or your child is swimming.