Cerebral palsy physiotherapy refers to any therapy used to improve the gross and fine motor skills of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). Each individual’s cerebral palsy physiotherapy program will be unique to that person’s needs. Therapies commonly associated with physiotherapy include physical therapy and occupational therapy (OT). Speech therapy and sensory integration therapy may also be a part of cerebral palsy physiotherapy.

Physical Therapy for CP
Physical therapy works to improve gross motor skills, such as sitting up straight and walking. The goal of physical therapy involves strengthening muscles in order to help individuals with cerebral palsy reach their full potential. Physical therapy can also be beneficial for improving balance and loosening tight muscles. Exercises done in physical therapy for CP vary, depending on the needs of the individual.

Occupational Therapy for CP
Occupational therapy for CP patients focuses on improving fine motor skills, like handwriting and using scissors, as well as improving daily life skills, such as getting dressed and eating. One way occupational therapists work to improve daily life skills is through utilizing assistive technology. For example, an occupational therapist may have someone who has trouble gripping regular eating utensils use specialized eating utensils with larger handles. Overall, occupational therapy can play a significant role in improving quality of life for cerebral palsy persons.

Speech Therapy for CP
Speech therapy may be incorporated into cerebral palsy physiotherapy in order to enhance communication skills. Speech therapists can increase articulation by having individuals do oral exercises to help develop face and jaw muscles. Speech therapists may also teach cerebral palsy persons how to use communication aids, like computers.

Sensory Integration Therapy
Additionally, sensory integration therapy can be implemented into cerebral palsy physiotherapy in order to improve sensory and perception skills. Sharpening sensory and perception skills aids in improving balance and movement.  

Cerebral palsy physiotherapy can be started shortly after diagnosis. In fact, the chance of physiotherapy being effective improves with early treatment. Learn more about cerebral palsy physiotherapy.