Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder characterized by motor impairment. Typical symptoms of cerebral palsy include weakness, overly rigid muscles, poor muscle control and muscle spasms. Physical therapy is part of a typical treatment program for people with CP, because exercise can improve mobility. Bicycle therapy is one way to achieve better movement, more independence and a better quality of life.
Bicycles
Stationary bicycles are optimal for bicycle therapy. Various adaptations of stationary bicycles accommodate the physical disabilities of cerebral palsy patients. Bicycles can be installed with a restraint system to support your upper body or a brace to keep your ankle in one plane of motion when pedaling. Restraining key parts of your body allows you to focus on the movement of cycling instead of possible involuntary or spastic movements. Also consider altering the bicycle's seat or pedals for more comfort and more effective cycling.
Guidelines
Implement bicycle therapy as a regular routine for maximum benefit. In a review of various studies on cycling for patients with cerebral palsy published in "BMC Pediatrics" in 2007, researchers from various universities in the United States found that bicycle therapy was most effective when put into practice at least two times per week for 20 to 30 minutes each day. Consult with a physical therapist to plan an exercise regimen that's specific to your body type and abilities.
Benefits
Bicycle therapy improves all areas of motor function, including coordination, strength and range of motion. Cycling can also improve your overall fitness level and cardiovascular conditioning. These benefits spill over to other coordinated movements, such as walking, because the motions target the same brain areas. Over time, bicycle therapy can even help you counteract muscle deterioration and overcome specific physical disabilities.
Considerations
All cerebral palsy patients new to bicycle therapy must spend time getting accustomed to using a modified bicycle. It's common for new bicycle users to expend too much energy and overuse muscle groups unrelated to the activity because they have muscles that involuntarily contract and activate together. A physical therapist can help you identify and target these automatic actions.
After this training period, cycling becomes more efficient and requires less effort from you. Depending on the bicycle's design, children may need special physical assistance to learn how to properly achieve the full circular pedaling motion.
References
- "Gait & Posture"; Biomechanics of Recumbent Cycling in Adolescents; Therese E. Johnston, et al.; 2008
- "Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology"; Physical and Sedentary Activity; Carol A. Maher, et al.; 2007
- "Journal of Child Neurology"; Injury to the Preterm Brain and Cerebral Palsy; Michael A. Babcock, et al.; 2009
- "Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation"; The Effects of a Shank Guide; Therese E. Johnston, et al.; 2008
- "BMC Pediatrics"; Pediatric Endurance and Limb Strengthening; Eileen G. Fowler, et al.; 2007
- "Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology"; Physical Fitness Levels; James H. Rimmer; 2007 (PDF)
