Cerebral palsy is name given to disorders that affect movement, muscle coordination and muscle tone. The disorder is caused by damage that occurs to a child's brain before, during or shortly after birth.
Cerebral palsy's side effects can range from mild to severe. Since cerebral palsy causes both muscle weakness and muscle tightness, range of movement exercises can be an effective tool in increasing strength, mobility and coordination.
Significance
According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, about half of all children diagnosed with cerebral palsy develop muscle spasticity, which means their muscles tighten involuntarily. Over time this can lead to joint problems, cause dislocations and inhibit mobility.
Expert Insight
"Exercise is good for people with cerebral palsy to improve coordination, endurance, general health, range of motion, mood and confidence," said Elizabeth Fox, a pediatric occupational therapist based in Magnolia, NJ, who works with children. According to Fox, sometimes cerebral palsy causes an imbalance where a person has weak core muscles and higher tone in the extremities. This imbalance can make everyday activities and even playtime challenging.
Types of Exercises
Since cerebral palsy affects an individual for a lifetime, exercises can vary from playtime activities with a parent and baby to more independent type activities for adolescents and adults.
Babies, in particular, can benefit from gentle yoga stretching. "Yoga for the Special Child" author Sonia Sumar, reports that yoga can help relax tight muscles leading to increased range of movement.
According to Fox, children can benefit from playtime exercise that includes playground time, music and dance. For all age groups, Fox suggests swimming, aerobic exercise in water, slow stretching, yoga and equine therapy. Equine therapy, also known has therapeutic horseback riding, can strength core muscles and also improve flexibility.
Complementary Therapies
Cerebral palsy and all related side effects are best treated through a range of therapies. Exercise coupled with physical, occupational and other recreational therapies can yield more holistic results. "The Preemie Parents Companion" suggests a multidisciplinary approach that includes exercise, physical therapy, adaptive devices, medical care, specialty braces and school-based programs.
Precautions
As with all exercise, proper body alignment is critical to avoiding injury. Fox also recommends slow, steady movements, as quick unpredictable movement can increase muscle tone. Individuals should exercise precaution to avoid injury and also consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise routines.
References
- Dictionary.com: Range of Motion
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: Cerebral Palsy Muscular Contractures and Spasticity
- North American Riding for Handicapped Association: Homepage
- Elizabeth Fox, Occupational Therapist, Early Intervention Services, Magnolia, NJ
- "The Preemie Parents Companion'; Susan L. Madden, MS; 2000
- "Yoga for the Special Child"; Sonia Sumar; 1998
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