While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, the condition does not worsen over time. That said, there are some secondary complications that can crop up due to abnormal muscle tone and motor skills. Today, there are several different types of cerebral palsy treatment aimed at improving overall quality of life, while teaching individuals how to be as independent as possible. Cerebral palsy treatment is designed to improve social interaction, increase physical strength, assist with personal hygiene and prevent further prevent complications, such as joint issues and stunted growth. Each individual treatment plan is specifically designed for each patient to meet his or her exact needs. Some of the most common forms of cerebral palsy treatment are explained below.
This type of cerebral palsy treatment is perhaps the most important form of therapy for individuals with cerebral palsy. Physical therapy programs work to strengthen muscles in an effort to improve total bodily strength, mobility and balance to increase personal independence. Stretching is a major component of physical therapy, as it helps to improve range of motion and joint strength, while slowing contracture formation. Physical therapy treatments can begin as soon as abnormal muscle tone or developmental delays are noticed, and continue over the course of a lifetime. Cerebral palsy therapists can also provide guidance regarding other forms of mobility devices or wheelchairs, if required.
Individuals suffering with cerebral palsy face issues with muscle growth unable to keep pace with bone growth. This results in contracture, which can cause limb deformities, leading to balance issues and a loss of coordination. Special braces and other orthotic devices can be combined with physical therapy treatments to help prevent contracture by keeping muscles stretched.
Medications can be used in a variety of ways to control muscle spasms and tremours and relax tightened muscles. Medications, such as phenol and, even, Botox, can be injected into problem areas to reduce some muscle spasticity. Anti-seizure, or anticonvulsant, medication can be helpful as well. Other medications may also be needed should other medical conditions arise.
Surgery as a form of cerebral palsy treatment can help correct issues such as uneven bone growth, spine curvature and loosen tight or stiff muscles. Spasticity can also be controlled by implantation of a pump that delivers medications directly to nerve roots or the spinal cord, in an effort to increase muscle tone. Surgery can be performed on muscles, nerves, joints and tendons to help correct posture. Surgery can also correct walking or sitting, while improving motor skills of the hands. This form of treatment can be used to ease pain as well. Surgical implantation of a feeding tube may also be needed to control gastroesophageal reflux.
Speech therapy can be quite beneficial to improving general language and communication skills. Therapists can also educate patients on how to make use of alternative communication methods.
This form of therapy typically centres on improving hand function, hand fine motor skills and basic self-care skills. The goal is to improve the patient’s everyday life, while teaching independence. Mobility training will be included in these treatments. Issues with eating, such as swallowing, will also be addressed during therapy sessions.
Items such as eye glasses and hearing aids can benefit patients with cerebral palsy a great deal. If eye glasses do not adequately correct vision problems, surgical eye treatments may be offered to correct focusing issues (sometimes referred to as strabismus) or crossed eyes.
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