Cerebral palsy is a nonprogressive disorder in which brain damage or abnormal brain development causes inadequate muscle control, movement and tone. Cerebral palsy does not cause damage to the muscles, but rather to the motor center of the brain that controls muscle movement. Due to the brain's inability to move the body's muscles properly, strength training is highly beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy. Before beginning a strength training routine, consult your doctor or physical therapist to determine the best program.
Muscle Strength
Our bodies depend on muscle strength for all types of movement, including walking, running, eating, talking, breathing and other everyday activities. Muscle strength can be especially critical for individuals with disabilities, including those with cerebral palsy.
Misconceptions
According to the American Association of Intensive Pediatric Physical Therapy, many misconceptions about strength training for people with cerebral palsy exist. Some common misconceptions are that increased strength will not improve function, that most individuals cannot control their muscles enough to strength train, that strength training will result in hypertrophy, and that increased spasticity will result from increased strength.
Benefits
Children with cerebral palsy often suffer from a condition in which their muscles grow at a slower rate than their bones; this is called contracture. Strength training helps reduce the development of contracture by allowing the muscles to grow and remain strong. Gross motor skills such as standing, walking, and sitting improve significantly through strength training. Strength training also allows the muscles to learn proper ways to perform basic skills through repeated and controlled muscle movements. This ultimately helps people with cerebral palsy reach their full movement potential.
Suggested Exercises
Beneficial exercises for individuals with cerebral palsy depend on the person's physical capabilities and limits, and each person needs a specialized exercise routine. Strength training exercises that United Cerebral Palsy suggests include arm and leg cycling, chair aerobics, rowing, stair climbing and swimming. Resistance exercises using free weights, machines and exercise bands are also beneficial.
General Guidelines
Exercise routines should be individualized and should focus on the individual's needs, goals and potential. Consult a trained professional when beginning, to ensure proper exercise techniques and safety. When setting goals, make sure they are realistic and can be assessed on a regular basis. Exercise at least three to five times per week, and focus on one muscle group per day. Strength training for people with cerebral palsy should not be overly strenuous. If any dizziness, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, severe muscle and joint pain or nausea occurs, stop exercising immediately and consult a doctor before proceeding with your exercise routine.
