Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a congenital disorder which consists of a group of permanent but non-progressive physical disabilities. CP is characterized by abnormal development or damage in one or more areas of the brain that control spinal reflexes and control muscle tone. There are multiple disturbances of motor disorders associated with CP, such as disturbances in perception, communication, sensation, behavior and cognition.
Occurs during the first or second trimester of fetal development
Disruption of normal process of development, possibly caused by faulty blood supply, chromosomal abnormality, or genetic disorder.
A baby sustains an injury to the brain before, during or after birth
Head trauma, bleeding in the brain, lack of oxygen, infection of the nervous system, metabolic disorder, or toxic injury or poisoning.
Individuals are classified according to their level of functionality and range between severe spastic or athetoid tetraplegic to minimally affected diplegia, hemiplegia, athetosis, or monoplegia. The risk of secondary conditions related to physical inactivity, such as obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease is higher in individuals with CP.
There are many benefits of exercise for individuals with CP. These include increased range of motion, improved coordination and quality of movement, increased strength and muscular endurance, improvements in peak oxygen uptake, higher ventilatory thresholds, and skeletal muscle hypertrophy. The benefit of decreased muscle tone allows for improved functioning and decreased use of antispasmodic medication. Individuals with CP can report a brief increase in spasticity and uncoordinated movement after a strenuous exercise session.
Exercise programs are designed according to each individual’s specific needs, goals and limitations. No two CP programs are the same, but the average CP exercise program focuses on aerobic endurance, muscular strength and flexibility. The progressive goal of each training session is to improve health and increase daily functional activities.
