Cerebral palsy affects the muscular system as a result of an injury to the brain. Doctors define cerebral palsy as occurring before birth or within the first two to three years of a child's life. It is important for cerebral palsy patients to maintain their strength, flexibility and coordination by participating in rehabilitation activities. Although the condition is not progressive, increasing body weight and size contributes to reduced function. Follow-up activities can help to improve physical abilities.
Therapy for Upper Extremities
Therapy in the upper extremities is usually done by an occupational therapist. These activities are designed to improve the daily living skills of patients by developing good manual dexterity and strength.
Upper extremity activities and exercises can include the use of exercise therapy bands to strengthen shoulders, elbows and wrists, squeeze balls to strengthen hands and functional activities for younger patients. Functional activities improve motivation for younger patients and include daily activities such as playing marbles or jacks, table tennis, board games that require more fine motor skills, cooking and personal care such as teeth brushing. Although daily skills require fine motor performance and strength, practicing them also can increase strength and dexterity. The type and amount of activity will depend on the current function level.
Therapy for Lower Extremities
Lower extremity therapy is frequently performed by physical therapists. According to Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, physical therapists are responsible for determining the appropriate adaptive devices that are utilized at home and in the community to improve functional abilities after patients have completed therapy. Home programs also are given to help the individual retain the strength and flexibility gained during more formal therapy sessions.
Leg strengthening activities and exercises at home help the patient to maintain his current level of functioning. These can include stretching to maintain flexibility, straight leg raises, hamstring curls and toe raises. The type of exercise will depend upon the patient's current level of function and motivation. Those who use a wheelchair will need to focus on improving hip strength and flexion, while those using crutches or walking independently will need to focus on exercises for quadriceps and calf strength.
Swimming
Swimming offers an opportunity for disabled individuals to experience a weightless environment, giving additional help to stretching and strengthening. The warmth of a heated pool can provide relief from muscle stiffness or pain and the activities build muscle strength and coordination. Although aquatic therapy can be an integral part of therapy, individuals also can participate independently when there is a qualified swim therapist to maintain a safe environment.
Horses
Hippotherapy is a therapeutic environment in which adults and children with cerebral palsy utilize horseback riding to challenge muscle tone, posture, balance and walking. According to Cerebral Palsy Source, the process works as the movement of the horse provides a sense of rhythm to the rider and forces the body to move correctly. Improvements have been noted in tone, coordination, mobility, balance and communication after children and adults have experienced the process.
