CEREBRAL PALSY TREATMENTS

CP cannot be cured. Prognosis depends on the severity of the disability. However, with treatment, many people with CP learn to walk and to perform everyday skills; they live full, independent lives.

As with assessment, treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. Physiotherapy should be started early to improve posture and reduce abnormal movements. It is important that the child achieves as much mobility as possible. Walking aids such as sticks, crutches, walking frame, trolleys, clippers etc may be required. Some children will need wheelchairs adapted for their use such as moulded seats or chair inserts. They may also need adapted knives, forks and spoons to help them feed themselves.

Speech therapy may improve the child's communication skills. Sometimes aids such as books with pictures, an alphabet board, or electronic devices are needed to improve communication. They may need to learn sign language.

Some children with cerebral palsy will need surgery to deal with contractures (chronic loss of joint motion) or scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) etc.

Drug treatment may alleviate some symptoms. Certain drugs such as Dantrolene, Diazipam and Baclofen are used to help reduce spasticity. Oxybutinin may help with bladder instability that is causing frequency and urgency. Anti-epilepsy therapy is required for children who have seizures. Anticholinergic drugs can reduce the flow of saliva thus reducing drooling.