First noted in the mid-1800s by English surgeon, William Little, cerebral palsy affects more than 750,000 Americans, occurring in one in 400 children. About 8,000 babies are diagnosed each year. Also, 1,200 to 1,500 more preschool children are diagnosed annually, according to Cerebral Palsy Source. Cerebral palsy is not curable, but it is preventable. Children affected by this condition can benefit from aquatic exercise, according to "Aquatic Exercise for Children with Cerebral Palsy," published by two physical therapists from Canada.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy is a collection of conditions caused by prenatal, childbirth, or early postnatal brain damage that affect motor coordination. Effects include tightness and spasticity, mental retardation, and vision problems. Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type, characterized by continuously tense muscles. Spasticity can worsen over time. Symptoms of cerebral palsy include developmental delay, unusual posture, atypical muscle tone and early hand preference. Diagnosis involves ruling out other similar disorders, checking reflexes and performing CT scans and other tests.
Treatment and Prevention
Early treatment of cerebral palsy is key to diminish related problems. Physical, occupational and drug therapies are just a few options that may be used to increase flexibility, improve fine motor skills and manage muscle rigidity and other effects and symptoms. Possible contributing factors to cerebral palsy include low birth weight, breech birth, and seizures. There are many ways to prevent cerebral palsy, including taking measures to avert head injury, watching for jaundice, and screening for Rh incompatibility.
Aquatic Exercises
Shallow water walking mimics walking on land but with 12 times more resistance. Have the child stand in water up to his waist or chest. Let him hold onto the side of the pool if needed Ask him to raise his legs higher or walk sideways to increase the challenge. Deep water running is also like its land-based counterpart -- long strides, extended legs, and corresponding arm movement. Aquatic PNF involves the performance of diagonal patterns against therapist- or water-induced resistance. Ai chi is water-based yoga using flowing, relaxed movements similar to those of land-based tai chi.
Benefits of Aquatic Exercise
Aquatic exercise is easier on joints and reduces the negative impact of inadequate posture and balance seen in children with cerebral palsy. It enhances respiration, gait, muscle strength and gross motor functions, such as walking, in those affected and allows freer movement than land activities. Specifically, shallow water walking increases metabolism and coordination, and participants don't have to know how to swim. Deep water running increases endurance with virtually no pain. Ai chi is a relaxation tool that also builds muscle and improves coordination. If done in groups, all exercises can provide valuable socialization.
Considerations
While a properly designed aquatic exercise program will not harm those affected by cerebral palsy, consider the child's limitations. Use a flotation device such as a belt or life vest for safety. Begin with a warm up, including stretches. Start slow and increase the length and frequency of exercises over time to improve strength and stamina. As with any new activity, consult a qualified, licensed physician prior to beginning.
References
- Cerebral Palsy Source
- Wiley Online Library: Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology--Aquatic Exercise for Children with Cerebral Palsy Abstract
- United Cerebral : Homepage
- "Mosby's Pocket Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing and Health Professions"; Fifth Edition; 2006
- Arthritis Foundation: Arthritis Today--Water Walking
- The Stretching Institute: Aerobic Water Exercise and Aquatic Therapy
