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Cerebral palsy affects each child differently, but the condition doesn’t progress. That means therapy can target your child's needs, improving their movement, easing their symptoms, and helping them live the best possible life.
Our team at THINK Neurology for Kids — Shaun S. Varghese, MD, Cristina R. Marchesano, MD, Lorena Herbert, MD, Barbara Kiersz-Mueller, DO, Lauren Weaver, MD, Alicia Walls, MD, Sundeep Mandava, MD, Patricia DeForest DO, Robby Korah, FNP-C, Jennifer E. Martin, CPNP-PC, Tammy DeLaGarza, FNP-C, and Heather King, CPNP-PC — provides exceptional care customized to meet each child’s needs.
Though medications can ease pain and treat muscle tightness, other therapies are essential for improving overall functioning, teaching children daily living skills, and boosting their mobility and fitness.
There is a wide range of therapies for children with cerebral palsy. Some examples include behavior, water, and music therapy. However, the following four therapies are among those we most often recommend.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy is a cornerstone treatment for cerebral palsy at every age because it focuses on the musculoskeletal system.
These therapists use many exercises and techniques to improve muscle control and movement. They also help parents, teaching them skills for every stage of their child's life.
Your physical therapist can suggest tips for positioning, feeding, and calming your baby. They also recommend changes you can make at home to encourage movement, communication, and play skills as your child grows.
Physical therapy does a remarkable job of reducing pain and discomfort. It also improves:
- Muscle strength
- Muscle tone
- Flexibility
- Balance and coordination
- Range of motion
- Posture
Regular physical therapy decreases the risk of complications like muscle contractures, which occur when muscles, tendons, and ligaments tighten and shorten.
If the muscles stay that way too long, the stretchy tissues are replaced with tough fibers, forcing them to remain in painful positions.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy uses many techniques to teach children the skills they need for daily life and optimal independence. These specialists may target:
- Reaching
- Grasping
- Brushing teeth
- Using scissors
- Getting dressed
- Using a tablet or computer
- Preparing food
- Opening a locker
- Using the bathroom
- Navigating public spaces
Occupational therapists teach adaptive skills for performing tasks. They also recommend and show children how to use assistive devices and technology.
Assistive equipment includes mobility aids and specialized chairs, as well as communication boards, adaptive keyboards, typing aids, and speech-generating devices.
Speech-language therapy
An estimated 33% to 63% of children with cerebral palsy have speech difficulties because the condition affects the muscles needed to speak.
Whether your child faces mild or severe speech challenges, speech-language therapy can help. These specialists focus on teaching children to form words and speak clearly. If speech isn't possible, children can learn to use alternative communication, such as sign language.
Speech therapists also work with children who drool uncontrollably or struggle to eat and swallow. The therapy improves these challenges by helping children control targeted muscles.
Recreational therapy
Play is more than a good time for children; it's crucial for their development. When playing, children build nerve connections in their brains and strengthen their bodies. They learn diverse skills, including planning activities, regulating emotions, and building social skills.
Recreational therapy is all about helping children with cerebral palsy participate in the activities they enjoy. A recreational therapist can help whether your child is interested in sports, arts and crafts, games, or any other activity.
This type of therapy is highly individualized and uses numerous techniques to support your child. For example, they may need muscle training, an adaptive device, or any combination of therapies to reach their goals.
Guidance for cerebral palsy therapy
Parents and children have many therapy options to explore. Our team guides the way, recommending therapies based on your child’s symptoms, strengths, and needs.
Request an appointment online or call the nearest THINK Neurology for Kids office to learn more about therapies for cerebral palsy. We’re in The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, Austin, San Antonio, and Gulf Coast, Texas.