How to Use Orthotics to Treat Cerebral Palsy
Orthotics, also called orthoses, are often used to increase the abilities of a person who has cerebral palsy (CP). Orthotics are braces, splints and sometimes casts that a person can use to stretch muscles or even inhibit certain movements or positions. Children who have cerebral palsy usually use orthotics from an early age.
Things You'll Need
- Orthotist
- Mild soap
- Clean soft cloth
- Orthotic
- Primary care physician
- Warm water
- Physical therapist
Instructions
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Use Orthotics to Treat Cerebral Palsy
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1
Meet with your primary care physician to determine if orthotics will effectively treat the type of motor impairments you are facing. Not all people with cerebral palsy need to use braces.
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2
Make an appointment with a respected orthotist, a professional who designs different types of braces and splints. He will use your doctor's notes and take measurements to create an orthotic that will treat your individual symptoms.
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3
Wear the brace as much as possible once it is properly fitted, even when sleeping, if possible. This is especially important for young children so that they can get used to the feeling of the affected body part's new position.
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4
Attend physical therapy sessions to learn how to increase mobility while using the orthotics. The combination of physical therapy and any necessary braces or other equipment can greatly enhance the abilities of a person with CP.
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5
Clean your braces with warm water and mild soap on a soft cloth. This will ensure that they will remain in good working condition. These devices are commonly made from leather, metal, plastic or a combination of the three materials.
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6
Keep a close eye on the condition of the skin that comes in contact with the brace. Irritation such as redness, blisters or open sores can indicate that the brace does not fit the right way or that it needs to be cleaned.
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7
Schedule periodic appointments to have the orthotics checked. Your doctor or orthotist will see that your orthotics are both accomplishing what they are supposed to and still fit correctly. Children who grow quickly will need to be measured for new equipment from time to time.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider donating outgrown orthotics to others who can use them. A common type of brace is the ankle-foot orthoses (AFO). Many children use AFOs and as they grow, they need to be fitted for a larger size. Donating AFOs that you no longer use can help defray the high costs associated with orthotics.
