Cerebral Palsy Treatment Options

Cerebral palsy is incurable, but it does not worsen over time, and there are several types of therapies available that can improve the quality of life for patients. The therapies will vary from patient to patient, and doctors must work with a team of health care professionals to determine what treatment program works best for each patient.

Treatment options for cerebral palsy:

• Physical therapy, to prevent muscle atrophy, or the deterioration of muscle tissue from lack of use; avoid the contraction of muscles caused by the condition, and improve motor skills through a program of special exercises.
• Behavioral therapy. A behavioral therapist will act as a coach to the patient to improve physical, mental and communicative skills. The therapy itself varies greatly depending on the individual's needs, age, and level of disability. Some of the techniques used will discourage negative or destructive behavior, while others emphasize self-sufficiency.
• Drugs control seizures caused by cerebral palsy. The types of drugs vary widely, as the source of the seizures can be attributed to a number of different causes. Different combinations of these drugs also may be required in each individual case. Another application of drug therapy is to control the spasticity caused by cerebral palsy. The three most common of these drugs are baclofen, diazepam, and dantrolene. All work by inhibiting chemical processes in the central nervous system, and have side effects that should be discussed with a doctor.
• Orthotic devices. For children with cerebral palsy, muscles do not grow fast enough to keep pace with lengthening bones. The resulting contracture can disrupt balance and trigger loss of abilities. Special braces (orthotic devices) combined with physical therapy and other interventions may prevent this complication by stretching spastic muscles.
• Surgery for patients suffering from extreme muscle contractions that do not respond well to other forms of treatment. These muscle contractions can be corrected by surgically lengthening the tendons and muscles involved.
• Occupational therapy focuses on developing a child's hand function, hand skills and self-care skills. Feeding and swallowing problems may be addressed. Occupational therapists also have expertise regarding special equipment that can benefit a child in daily living, school and mobility.
• Speech therapists can help children improve their speech and language skills or use of alternative means of communication.

Haymond Law is committed to helping those whose lives have been affected by cerebral palsy. We provide personalized representation to families with children who have serious medical conditions including cerebral palsy. Our attorneys pride themselves on personal attention to detail, and will go to clients' homes if they are unable to come to any of their offices.