Things You'll Need:
- Cerebral Palsy Treatment Team
- Cerebral Palsy Mechanical Aids (optional)
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Step 1
Diagnose cerebral palsy.
Before finding cerebral palsy treatment, you need to be sure the person in question is suffering from the condition. While most symptoms differ between people, some tell tale signs include muscle spasms or tightness, uncontrollable movement, and unnaturally poor balance or mobility. If not such, take the person to a pediatrician or physician for a professional opinion. -
Step 2
Find a physician to lead the cerebral palsy treatment team.
After successfully identifying cerebral palsy, you need to recruit a treatment team to begin physical and mental therapy. First, research and choose a physician, as they will serve as the "team leader", and will head the cerebral palsy treatment. The physician will help you determine exactly what treatment is needed, and who else to recruit. -
Step 3
Recruit the rest of the cerebral palsy treatment team.
Next, work with the physician to create the rest of the team. Depending on the specific needs of the person with cerebral palsy, the treatment team may or may not include the following professionals:
- Orthopedist (for treating bones / muscles)
- Physical Therapist (creates exercises to boost mobility and strength)
- Occupational Therapist (teaches skills for daily school, work and living activities)
- Speech and Language Pathologist (treats communication problems)
- Psychologist (for coping with cerebral palsy)
- Educator (for treating any mental disabilities that may be present)
- Social Worker (helps patients and parents find relevant programs and assistance) -
Step 4
Create a therapy plan for cerebral palsy treatment.
Once the cerebral palsy treatment team is assembled, the primary care giver (usually the physician), will collaborate with the other team members to construct the therapy regiment, and also to record the progress made. This plan may change as the person with cerebral palsy matures, and different programs might be added or removed as deemed necessary. -
Step 5
Adhere to the cerebral palsy treatment plan.
Perhaps the hardest step in this entire process is to maintain and stay committed to the advised cerebral palsy therapy. The sooner treatment begins the better; routine exercises help prevent muscle growth from becoming stunted or contorted. Take note that the amount of therapy needed may be drastically reduced as the patient grows older. Keep engaged with the treatment, and over time, the benefits of therapy will become more and more visible.
