Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects muscle control and movements. It usually appears in infancy or early childhood, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Although the Institute notes that cerebral palsy has no cure, various treatments to help with motor skills and communication abilities may enable sufferers to make significant improvements. Possible treatments include physical, occupational and speech therapy, medications to control seizures, muscle spasms or pain, and surgery, braces or orthotics to correct anatomical abnormalities. One novel therapy to help with symptoms is dance therapy.
Dance Therapy
Dance or movement therapy offers an additional treatment option for people suffering from cerebral palsy. As stated by the American Dance Therapy Association, dance therapy uses movement to address individual emotional, social, cognitive, and physical needs. Professionals working in the field hold a master's degree at minimum and will be registered with or board-certified by the Dance/Movement Therapy Certification Board. The ADTA notes that this type of therapy can serve people of all impairments and abilities.
Inspiring Results
In 2009, The New York Times reported the story of Gregg Mozgala, an actor with cerebral palsy who began to work with choreographer Tamar Rogoff. Through their movement sessions, Mozgala reported more change over an eight-month period in his walk, muscle awareness and control than he had experienced during 12 years of physical therapy. The results of their work together support the emerging research that regards the neurological system as plastic or changeable, noted Dr. Stephen A. Paget, chief of rheumatology at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, in the report.
Existing Programs
Experts writing for the Mayo Clinic explain that a team approach can offer the most integrated resources to treat cerebral palsy. Including a dance or movement therapist in such a treatment team may become increasingly common as research continues in this area. As of January 2011, the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability noted that the Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation was considering funds for a dance therapy program. The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago already conducts weekly dance classes for children with cerebral palsy.
Getting Involved
To find a dance or movement therapist or gather information on training and certification programs, browse resources through the American Dance Therapy Association's website. The ADTA boasts members in 48 states and U.S. territories as well as 30 different countries. In addition, the website of the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability provides a list of general dance programs, as well as contact information for people interested in starting a new program in their area.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Cerebral Palsy Information Page; National Institutes of Health; June 2011
- American Dance Therapy Association: Dance/Movement Therapy Brief Fact Sheet; 2009
- Mayo Clinic: Cerebral Palsy
- National Center on Physical Activity and Disability: Cerebral Palsy and Ballet; January 2011
