Helping Patients with Cerebral Palsy Live Comfortable and Confident Lives
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition that affects muscle control and movement, which can cause permanent physical disability. Physical therapy (PT) is an important tool to help individuals living with cerebral palsy improve their quality of life. It works to strengthen the muscles, improve coordination, and increase mobility of those affected.
March is a special month for those living with cerebral palsy, as it is a time to raise awareness of the condition and its effects. This year marks the 32nd annual Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, which not only seeks to educate the general public about what cerebral palsy is, but also sheds light on the wide range of support services that are available for those living with CP. Additionally, Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month creates opportunities to connect individuals and families who may have similar experiences and can share their stories of hope and resilience.
Through physical therapy treatments and methods, we have seen a multitude of patients living with cerebral palsy live more comfortable and confident lives. If you or a loved one has cerebral palsy and you’d like to see how our team can help assist them in improved function and independence, contact ProFysio Physical Therapy today. You can reach us at (732) 812-5200.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
It is estimated that cerebral palsy affects 1 in 345 children in the United States. Around 764,000 individuals are living with varying levels of disability due to cerebral palsy. This neurological disorder impacts body movement, muscle coordination, and posture, as well as other functions, such as learning, hearing, vision, and speech.
It is important to make progress towards greater accessibility and improved quality of life for all those affected by this condition. During this awareness month, we encourage our patients to learn more about cerebral palsy and how physical therapy can support those living with it.
Examples may include exercises designed to build muscle tone, improve coordination, and enhance posture and balance. We can also prescribe therapeutic activities for patients to assist in recreational or leisure pursuits. Additionally, physical therapists will educate families on how to best care for the child with cerebral palsy and support them as they build up their physical abilities. Our ultimate goal is to help patients enjoy the hobbies and activities they love, without persistent discomfort from their condition.
How Can Physical Therapy Help Patients with Cerebral Palsy?
Physical therapy is a crucial part of managing the symptoms associated with cerebral palsy. It can help improve balance, coordination, and learning, as well as developments in strength, flexibility, and endurance. Physical therapists assess patients to determine the best course of treatment, and then design individualized therapy plans based on the patient's specific needs. Our team helps patients improve body control and awareness, so they can live with increased confidence and independence.
Evidence-based PT treatments may include exercises to enhance mobility, gait training (walking), stretching, strengthening, balance and posture correction, transfers (moving in and out of a bed or chair), aquatic therapy, orthotics, and other interventions depending on the situation. In addition to physical therapy methods and modalities, occupational therapy may also be recommended, which focuses on restoring or improving fine motor skills needed for daily life activities, such as feeding, dressing, or self-care tasks.
With regular physical therapy sessions, those with cerebral palsy can develop physical skills while also decreasing their pain and fatigue levels. Ultimately, physical therapy can help individuals with cerebral palsy lead full lives and participate in the activities they enjoy.
Consult with a Physical Therapist Today
Physical therapy can assist both adults and children living with cerebral palsy. To schedule a consultation for yourself or a loved one, please contact our compassionate and caring team at (732) 812-5200 today.