Cerebral Palsy (CP) is an umbrella term that refers to the problems caused when there is damage to the brain either during pregnancy or during/shortly after birth. There is lots of variation in how CP affects an individual and the problems they have. It can affect the control of movement, muscle strength, muscle tone (stiffness of muscles), coordination of movement, posture, balance and walking. Some people may have uncontrolled or unpredictable movements, tremors or shakes that impact on their ability to carry out day to day activities.

Although Cerebral Palsy is a permanent life-long condition, some symptoms of Cerebral Palsy can improve with physiotherapy interventions or worsen over time if not treated or managed.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect movement, posture, and muscle coordination due to damage to the developing brain, usually occurring before or during birth. The effects of cerebral palsy can vary widely and may include the following aspects:

Motor Impairments:

CP primarily affects motor function, leading to difficulties in movement and coordination.

Individuals with CP may experience muscle stiffness (spasticity), involuntary movements (dyskinesia), poor muscle control (ataxia), or a combination of these.

Mobility Challenges:

Many individuals with CP face challenges in mobility and may require assistive devices such as walkers, crutches, or wheelchairs.

Gait abnormalities and difficulties with balance can also be common.

Muscle Tone Abnormalities:

Altered muscle tone is a hallmark of CP. This can manifest as increased muscle tone (hypertonia), decreased muscle tone (hypotonia), or fluctuations between the two.

Speech and Communication Difficulties:

CP can affect the muscles involved in speech and communication, leading to difficulties in articulation, voice control, and language development.

Fine Motor Skill Limitations:

Individuals with CP may experience challenges in tasks that require precision and coordination, such as writing, buttoning clothes, or handling small objects.

Intellectual Impairments:

While CP is primarily a motor disorder, some individuals may have associated intellectual impairments. However, many individuals with CP have normal or above-average intelligence.

Sensory Impairments:

CP may be associated with sensory issues, including difficulties with vision, hearing, or sensation.

Seizures:

Some individuals with CP may have epilepsy and experience seizures.

Joint and Bone Issues:

Prolonged spasticity and muscle imbalance can lead to orthopedic issues, including joint contractures and deformities, as well as an increased risk of fractures.

Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Challenges:

Difficulties in muscle coordination, particularly those involved in swallowing, can lead to feeding and digestive issues.

Respiratory challenges may arise due to muscle weakness or spasticity affecting the muscles involved in breathing.

Cognitive and Behavioral Challenges:

Some individuals with CP may experience cognitive and behavioral challenges, including attention deficits, impulsivity, and emotional difficulties.

Social and Emotional Impact:

Living with CP can have social and emotional implications, as individuals may face challenges related to societal attitudes, accessibility, and participation in various activities.

It’s important to note that the effects of CP can vary widely from person to person. The severity and combination of symptoms depend on the extent and location of brain damage. Early intervention, rehabilitation, and ongoing support can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with cerebral palsy and help them overcome many challenges associated with the condition.

MOTIONrehab® starts with an assessment to identify our patient’s difficulties and find out what is important to them. After this we put together a personalised treatment programme using hands-on therapy, exercises and state of the art rehabilitation technology to help individuals achieve their goals We will then discuss the options for your rehabilitation including whether intensive rehabilitation would work for you.

MOTIONrehab can help with the preparation for SDR surgery. “pre-hab” is treatment aimed to optimize the individual’s physical condition before the surgery to maximise the pos-toperative recovery process. Treatment may include strength training, flexibility and range of movement exercises, cardiovascular fitness, balance and walking exercises.

MOTIONrehab can also provide post-operative rehabilitation, this includes working alongside NHS therapists or collaborating with surgical teams overseas. Rehabilitation post-operatively focuses on maximising the outcomes of surgery and promoting independence. Following assessment and liaison with the surgical team, MOTIONrehab provide a bespoke programme including hands-on therapy and rehabilitation technology to work on an individual’s specific needs and goals.

On arrival you will be provided with our Terms and Conditions of Business and the relevant consent forms to agree to treatment. If you would like to receive these in advance of your appointment please contact our Client Services Team on 0800 8600 138. and they will assist you. If received in advance please bring the completed document with you to the first appointment.

As part of your initial assessment, your physiotherapist will need to take details of your medical history, present condition, allergies/sensitivities and current medications. Please come to the appointment in comfortable clothing, for example, shorts, t-shirt, and trainers.