Treatment Options for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy, or CP, is the name given to a group of disorders that affect movement and coordination. CP is classified as a birth injury / childhood injury, as it is acquired by injury to an undeveloped brain. The majority of CP injuries occur during pregnancy (75%), with another 5% suffered during the birthing process itself, and an additional 15% happening after pregnancy until the age of 3.

Cerebral palsy is a non-contagious and non-progressive disorder, which means that it cannot be passed from person to person and that once the injury takes place, it will not continue to worsen with time. Unfortunately, there is no cure for CP, which means that someone diagnosed with cerebral palsy will live with the condition all of his or her life.

Fortunately, there are a number of treatment options that, while unable to cure the disorder, can offer relief and increased movement for CP patients.

CP Treatment Options

Physical therapy: since cerebral palsy affects movement and coordination, physical therapy can be incredibly helpful in improving a patient’s range of motion, building muscle, improving bone structure, and protecting the joints. Physical therapy should be continued throughout a patient’s life for optimal effects.

Occupational therapy: some of the symptoms of cerebral palsy can make it difficult for patients to live independent lives. However, occupational therapy can help train people diagnosed with cerebral palsy to gain life skills and learn to operate independently with their conditions.

Speech therapy: when CP affects a person’s ability to speak, speech therapy can be beneficial in improving communication as well as control of the muscles around the mouth and jaw.

Contact Us

If your child has acquired cerebral palsy because of a medical professional’s mistake, contact Cincinnati personal injury lawyer Shawn M. Stepleton today at 513-321-7733.