What is Cerebral Palsy?
In this post, our very own Pediatric Physiotherapist Harmehek Sidhoo explains more about this condition and how it can impact people of all ages.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. It typically appears in infancy or early childhood and is caused by irreversible damage to the developing brain, often before birth. CP symptoms can vary widely—from mild issues with balance and coordination to more severe impairments requiring lifelong care.
What Causes Cerebral Palsy?
CP is the result of abnormal development or damage to parts of the brain that control movement. This typically can occur during pregnancy (in-utero), during the birthing process, and typically symptoms present early on in life.
Prenatal stroke: A disruption in blood flow to the brain before birth.
Birth complications: Such as lack of oxygen (asphyxia) during labor and delivery.
Postnatal factors: Like head injuries or infections (e.g., meningitis) in the first few years of life.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in improving quality of life for individuals with Cerebral Palsy. It focuses on developing physical abilities, enhancing mobility, and helping children and adults gain greater independence in their daily lives.
For mild CP: Physiotherapy can support independent walking, improve coordination, and help manage muscle stiffness or weakness. Early intervention can be especially effective in maximizing mobility and function. Some typical gait abnormalities that are seen which may require further testing to rule in cerebral palsy are asymmetrical toe walking, crouch gait/consistently walking with bent knees, as well as drop foot.
For moderate to severe CP: Physiotherapy may focus on improving bed mobility, assisting with transfers (e.g., from bed to wheelchair), and teaching techniques for safe assisted walking. Strengthening exercises, stretching routines, and the use of adaptive equipment can all be tailored to the individual's needs. Additionally, physiotherapy can help teach parents who are primary caregivers, ways to protect their own physical health while assisting their children with greater mobility needs.
Daily living skills: Beyond mobility, physiotherapists often work on practical activities such as dressing, eating, and personal care. Therapy may include task-specific training, balance exercises, and caregiver education.
Regular physiotherapy not only supports physical function but can also boost confidence and provide social and emotional benefits through increased participation in home, school, and community life.
