With early and ongoing treatment the effects of CP can be reduced. Many
children learn how to get their bodies to work for them in other ways. For
example, one infant whose CP keeps him from crawling may be able to get around
by rolling from place to place.
Typically, children with CP may need different kinds of therapy,
including:
Physical therapy (PT), which helps the child develop stronger muscles such as
those in the legs and trunk. Through PT, the child works on skills such as
walking, sitting, and keeping his or her balance.
Occupational therapy (OT), which helps the child develop fine motor skills
such as dressing, feeding, writing, and other daily living tasks.
Speech-language pathology (S/L), which helps the child develop his or her
communication skills. The child may work in particular on speaking, which may be
difficult due to problems with muscle tone of the tongue and throat.
All of these are available as related services in both early intervention
programs (for very young children) and special education (for school-aged
children).
Children with CP may also find a variety of special equipment helpful. For
example, braces (also called AFOs) may be used to hold the foot in place when
the child stands or walks. Custom splints can provide support to help a child
use his or her hands. A variety of therapy equipment and adapted toys are
available to help children play and have fun while they are working their
bodies. Activities such as swimming or horseback riding can help strengthen
weaker muscles and relax the tighter ones.
New medical treatments are being developed all the time. Sometimes surgery,
Botox injections, or other medications can help lessen the effects of CP, but
there is no cure for the condition. It’s also important to understand that
cerebral palsy is not contagious, not inherited, and not progressive. The
symptoms will differ from person to person and change as children and their
nervous systems mature.
No comments:
Post a Comment