cerebral palsy
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy or CP is an umbrella term for abnormal development of the nervous system either prior to, or at birth. This causes stroke like symptoms such as poor co-ordination, weakness of one or more limbs, and delayed physical development. The condition will very wildly from mild dragging of one leg to being unable to fully control either or both arms and legs.
In the early years, treatment is geared towards helping the child to move as normally as possible. This might involve exercises, stretches, splints and balance work. This treatment usually takes place in a school to reduce the interference with education as much as possible.
As children with CP grow into adulthood, they may be faced with a new set of challenges such as living and working independently, or coping with other changes or injuries.
How Can Physio-Neuro Help?
Physiotherapy aims to improve function and enable as much normal movement as possible. Tight muscles and joints may need to be stretched out, whilst weak muscles may need to be strengthened. Balance and the ability to move about, whether that is from a bed to a wheelchair, or walking to a car, is important.
It is also important that the adult with CP is encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and is encouraged to participate in sports, and treatment may take place at a local gym, in conjunction with a personal trainer, or a swimming pool.
