Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that causes impairments in motor function and in some instances, mental retardation. Individuals with cerebral palsy can have a wide variety of impairments, including spasticity, decreased coordination, difficulty walking and abnormal posture. Exercise has been shown to help improve these symptoms and yield a better quality of life for these individuals. Always consult a physician or physical therapist before initiating an exercise program with an individual who has cerebral palsy.
Stretching Programs
One of the most prevalent forms of the disease is spastic cerebral palsy and results in the inability to relax the muscles. Since the muscles are constantly in a shortened state, muscle tightness can result that can significantly impair the individual's functional abilities. According to The Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, a stretching program can help with muscle tightness and prevent the development of muscle contractures. Stretching exercises should be performed daily and include all major muscle groups. Since these individuals have increased spasticity, ballistic stretching should not be performed as this will only cause the muscles to become more spastic. A physical therapist can help educate you on how to perform safe and effective stretching routines for people with cerebral palsy.
Strengthening Programs
Despite having increased tone, individuals with cerebral palsy commonly have weakness in their muscles. This can be problematic and impair their ability to stand, walk and engage in recreational activities. There has been much debate among the medical community on whether individuals with cerebral palsy should perform strengthening exercises. However, the most current body of evidence suggests that strengthening exercises can have a significant impact on motor function. The Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research states that muscle training such as strengthening exercises can be beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy and help to improve their mobility and function. A physical therapist will be able to help guide you in a structured strengthening program that can effectively target the appropriate muscle groups.
Cardiovascular Programs
Cardiovascular exercise is just as important for individuals with cerebral palsy as it is for the healthy population. In addition to helping their physical health, cardiovascular exercise can also help promote mental health. Cardiovascular exercise can be incorporated into fun activities such as dancing, aerobics and recreational sports. It is imperative to keep the intensity of exercise within the limits suggested by the individual's health care practitioner.
Aquatic Therapy Programs
Some of the most promising treatments for individuals with cerebral palsy incorporate aquatic therapy programs to help improve their motor function. These programs utilize the inherent properties of water to help provide resistance and facilitate exercise routines. The benefits of aquatic therapy programs are that they allow the individual to engage in stretching, strengthening and cardiovascular exercise in a fun atmosphere. An aquatic therapy specialist can help design and implement such programs safely.
