Cerebral palsy is a collective term given to a group of non-progressive motor conditions that cause physical disability in development, affecting movement.
Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the motor control centres in the developing brain, during pregnancy, childbirth or shortly after birth.
The level of neurological involvement can be variable depending on where the damage has occurred and the degree of damage.
Common disorders resulting from cerebral palsy are:
- Spasticity
- Contractures (muscle shortening)
- Muscle weakness
- Ataxia (poor co-ordination of movement)
- Athetosis (abnormal mix of muscle tone resulting in writhing unpredictable movements)
- Tremor
- Reduced function
- Pain
How Bristol neurophysio can help
The experienced neurophysiotherapists at Bristol neurophysio can assist children and adults with management of cerebral palsy with a range of techniques, including:
- Postural management
- Spasticity management
- Regular stretches
- Pain management
- Exercise and strengthening programmes
- Rehabilitation programmes following SDR surgery
- Provision of appropriate aids and equipment
- Assistance with identifying and optimising an individual’s potential
- Advice and education
- Liaison with other services as appropriate
We frequently work alongside therapists in the NHS, both with children and adults and we can also help to facilitate the transition between paediatric and adult services.