Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects your brain and different nervous system functions such as movement, hearing, learning, vision and thought, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cerebral palsy may be noticed during the first two years as a child's brain is developing, but often happens inside the womb.
Causes
Cerebral palsy is typically caused by an injury or abnormality in your child's brain as it develops. Specific causes include a lack of oxygen to the brain, head injury, bleeding in the brain, severe jaundice or an infection in the mother.
Physical Exercises
Exercising the body can help patients whose movement has been restricted by cerebral palsy. Working the muscles while submerged in water will enable your child to perform exercises he wouldn't be able to do on land. Running, jumping and kicking in the water are effective if he is able. Out of the water, regular stretching assisted by a therapist will help increase range of motion and reduce joint and muscle limitation, says MayoClinic.com. Resistance training with exercise bands or light weights may be used to strengthen weak muscles and provide a gentle stretch, according to the United Cerebral Palsy website.
Occupational Therapy
When cerebral palsy affects basic motor skills, an occupational therapist will work with the patient to help develop hand skills and self-care skills. Feeding and swallowing may also be covered depending on the severity of the condition. Therapists will often work on developing the muscles used for functional activities like sitting, rolling over, crawling or walking by using alternative strategies, facilitated practice or adaptive equipment.
Benefits
The benefits you can expect to see in your child or loved one as a result of cerebral palsy exercises include improved muscle tone, increased coordination, better balance and overall stress relief. You will also notice her ability to speak more clearly and manipulate small items with her hands. Bone density may also be improved through weight-bearing exercises like dancing, walking or stair climbing. The overriding benefit from all exercise therapy is greater independence and self-reliance throughout life.
Considerations
Cerebral palsy does not have a cure, but it also will not worsen as time goes by. If your child suffers from cerebral palsy, he may require treatment from therapists throughout his life. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cerebral palsy may not be preventable as evidenced by the fact that although vast improvements have been made in prenatal care, there has been no significant reduction in the rate of incidence of this condition. Performing regular physical therapy and exercise will continue to be a key in managing cerebral palsy in your child's life.
