The treatment administered to individuals affected with Cerebral Palsy (CP) need multidisciplinary approach including helps of orthopedic surgeon, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech therapist etc. Treatment planning is depends upon many factor like diagnosis, complication, associated medical issues and grade of disability and movement disorder etc. Early treatment of cerebral palsy in children has the likelihood of bringing about the most positive change. Since every diagnosis differs from another, the type of treatment also varies.
Factors determining the type of treatment
Based on the following factors, courses of treatments are decided by doctors:
· Degree of disability
· Type of movement disorder
· Co-existing conditions
· Type of cerebral palsy
Treatment is inclusive of long and short term approaches to the specific condition of a child. The course for a child may involve physical therapy, surgery, medications and more.
Treatment options for cerebral palsy in children
1) Use of physical therapy- If CP has been detected at a very young age, therapy can be started at the same time. The method is personalized as per every case, and is focused on the most impacted areas of the body. Recommendations of physical therapy include strength training, stretching, muscle relaxation exercises and developmental program. The therapy also undergoes change as the child ages.
2) Occupational therapy- The idea behind occupational therapy is to increase independence amongst CP patients. For teens and adults, therapies may revolve around enhancing the patient’s ability to work. However, occupational therapy is meant to improve quality of life for people across a wide variety of age groups. Benefits of application include carrying out household tasks smoothly, mobility and independence in personal care.
3) Massage therapy- This form of therapy should not be used lightly. Vigorous oil massage can increase the spasticity & tightness in body. Light powder massage is necessary for relaxation of muscle and helps a lot in rehabilitation. Massage therapy is not just good for flexibility, but also for complete rejuvenation of soft body tissues. Therapists improve muscle functionality by targeting muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and skin.
4) Use of speech therapy- Speech therapists helps in managing speech disorders in CP. Children can speak more clearly with the help of this therapy. Language and speech therapy focus both on the language and receptive parts of speech.
5) Necessary medications- Medications are very rarely required to manage abnormal movement pattern and spasticity. Medicine area also required for management of epilepsy. Medicine should not be given to these children without doctor recommendation.
