The treatment for cerebral palsy is done with several health professionals, it is necessary at least doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, dentist, nutritionist and occupational therapist so that the limitations of the individual are diminished and their quality of life can improve.
The cure for cerebral palsy does not exist, but treatment may be helpful in reducing the symptoms and consequences of paralysis, and orthopedic surgeries can control some deformities in the arms, hands, legs or feet to stabilize joints and relieve pain if this is present.
Remedies for cerebral palsy
The neuropediatrician may prescribe the use of medicines to control seizures and spasticity such as baclofen, diazepam, clonazepam, dantrolene, clonidine, tizanidine, clopromazine, as well as botox to control spasticity.
Physiotherapy for cerebral palsy
Physical therapy in children with cerebral palsy can help prepare the child to prepare for sitting, getting up, taking a few steps or even walking, getting objects and even eating, although a caregiver is always needed to help all these activities.
Psychomotricity is a type of physiotherapy very suitable for treatment in case of cerebral palsy, where the exercises must be playful and can be performed on the floor, on a firm mattress or on top of a large ball, preferably in front of a mirror for that the therapist has a better angle of view and so that it can also be useful to get the attention of the child.
Physical therapy is very helpful because it helps:
- Improve the child's posture, muscle tone and breathing;
- Control reflexes, improve tone and facilitate movement;
- Increase flexibility and breadth of joints.
Physiotherapy sessions should preferably be performed daily but if the child is properly stimulated every day by their caregivers, the frequency of physical therapy may be 1 or 2 times a week.
Stretching exercises should be performed slowly and carefully, every day. Muscle strengthening is not always welcome because when there is a central injury, this type of exercise can reinforce the injury and increase spasticity.
