Popular Cerebral Palsy Treatments

The goal of treatment is to help the person be as independent as possible.

Cerebral palsy treatment requires a team approach, which can include a combination of specialist:

• A primary care doctor
• A social worker
• Nurses
• Occupational, physical, and speech therapists
• Other specialists like early interventionists, nutritionist and special educators

Self and home care includes:

• Getting proper food and nutrition
• Environmental modifications to improve ability to be as independent and safe as possible
• Performing exercises recommended by the health care providers
• Practicing proper bowel care (stool softeners, fluids, fiber, laxatives, regular bowel habits)
• Protecting the joints from injury and contraction management

Putting the child in regular schools is recommended, unless physical disabilities or mental development makes this impossible. Special education or schooling may help with developing skills like self regulation and communication.

The following may help with communication and learning:

• Glasses
• Hearing aids
• Muscle and bone braces
• Walking aids like crutches and walkers
• Wheelchairs

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthopedic help, or other cerebral palsy treatments may also be needed.

Photo courtesy of Miss Chicken

Medications may also help manage symptoms:

• Anticonvulsants to prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures
• Botulinum toxin(Bo-Tox) to help with spasticity and drooling
• Muscle relaxants (baclofen) to reduce tremors and spasticity

Surgery may be needed in some cases to:

• Control gastroesophageal reflux
• Cut certain nerves from the spinal cord to help with pain and spasticity
• Place feeding tubes
• Release joint contractures

Dorsal Rhizotomy- C.P. Treatment

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

United Cerebral Palsy

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