How to Get Help for Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Children and adults who live with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) have difficulty moving due to constant muscle weakness, stiffness and tightness. Although there’s no cure for this condition, treatment options are available. Treatment options vary. However, they’re all designed to ease muscle stiffness, increase joint flexibility and promote increased mobility.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Prescription medications
• Massage therapy
• Occupational therapy

1. Begin treatment early in life. Unfortunately, some parents put off getting help for their children. However, it’s best to start treatment and therapy sessions early. Early intervention is necessary because this helps children overcome movement barriers, and they’re taught from an early age how to gain control over weak muscles.
2. Talk with a surgeon and discuss medical options. Often times, surgery is an effective treatment option for CP. Again, there’s no cure for spastic cerebral palsy. Still, surgeons can help correct muscle deformities, which can improve the way a sufferer walks, runs or stands.
3. Take prescription medications. Nobody wants to take medication on a daily basis. However, several medications are proven to reduce muscle spasticity. In the end, sufferers are less likely to become severely disabled, and they’re able to walk without assistance from others.
4. Attend therapy sessions. Along with medications and surgery, children and adults with spastic cerebral palsy require ongoing occupational and physical therapy. Since muscles continually tighten and stiffen, therapy is necessary to strengthen and relax muscles.
5. Get regular massages. Persons living with spastic cerebral palsy can also benefit from massage therapy. These therapy sessions relax muscles and improve mobility. Massage therapy can be combined with occupational and physical therapies.