Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder diagnosed during early childhood when a child is having problems with posture, gait and muscle tone. Cerebral palsy occurs due to damage to the cerebral portion of the brain that controls muscle tone and movements. Various causes include genetic disorders, infections, injuries, hemorrhages, asphyxia (lack of oxygen supply to the brain tissues), etc.

Though cerebral palsy is non-treatable, physiotherapy can help in keeping the affected individual healthy. When an individual with cerebral palsy does not receive any physical therapy, it leads to muscular atrophy, loss of joint movement, contracture of muscle and joint pain.

Role of physiotherapy:

Physiotherapy prevents further damage to the skeletal muscles by enhancing muscle strength, improving the blood supply and preserving the nerve control. The physiotherapist will prescribe the following exercises, which can be done by the patient himself/herself with the help of a caregiver.

1. Weight training is done to improve the muscle tone and endurance.

2. Heat packs help in preserving the blood circulation.

3. Ultrasound therapy conditions the muscle fibers and the nerves.

4. Treatment measures may also include the use of exercise machines, game activities and stretching.

Various studies have shown significant improvement in the quality of life of individuals who successfully followed physiotherapy, compared to those who do not.