Cerebral palsy occurs when there is an injury to the developing brain either during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Cerebral palsy results in a physical disability that affects movement and posture and is a permanent life-long condition, which does not worsen over time. 1 in 700 children are born with cerebral palsy and it is considered to be the most common physical disability in childhood.
People with cerebral palsy of all ages can improve their function and gross motor skills through increasing their fitness levels and reducing sedentary behaviours.
The wide range of benefits elicited by regular physical activity include:
» improved health and well-being (including decreased anxiety, depression and stress)
» maintained mobility and range of motion
» decreased sedentary behaviours
» decreased risk of mortality due to cardiovascular and circulatory complications
» improved sleep patterns and quality
» increased circulation and movement of the bowels and therefore decreased likelihood of bowel obstructions and constipation
Every individual with cerebral palsy is unique, as the type and presentation of their movement disorder depends on the area of the brain affected and therefore impacts the recommended type of exercise. Concentric Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists support clients with cerebral palsy to assist them to reach their goals. They complete a thorough initial assessment of the client with cerebral palsy to determine what the movement presentations are and then create an individual plan to address these. They also work with other members of the Concentric multidisciplinary team such as OT’s, speech therapists and dietitians to support their clients.
Aerobic exercise is important for people with cerebral palsy as it allows them to complete everyday activities such as walking or propelling a wheelchair without being inhibited by fatigue. Maintaining strength through strength exercise is important to keep muscles healthy and reduce cardiometabolic risk factors and lower all-cause mortality. Strong muscles are helpful for daily activities like getting up and down from the couch, getting dressed, or leaning forward to put a sling on for hoist transfers.
People with cerebral palsy are recommended to utilise both functional and progressive strength training. This technique involves using exercises that are made progressively more difficult through an increase in the amount of weight or the resistance over time. Balance exercises are also important. Practising both static and dynamic balance, in a range of different foot positions and environments, is a great way to maintain and improve balance.
Hydrotherapy is a common modality of exercise that involves training in a heated pool (32-34 degrees). Along with improving strength and mobility, including gross motor function and walking endurance, Hydrotherapy programs can integrate aerobic, strength and balance training in a safe environment.
Source Exercise and Sport Science Australia www.exerciseright.com.au
To find out how our allied health therapists can support clients with cerebral palsy please contact 1300 148 160 or email support@concentric.com.au.