Cerebral palsy is a condition without a cure, but there are numerous treatment options.

The purpose of cerebral palsy treatment is to improve quality of life both physically and socially as well as control or mitigate associated complications such as seizures, speech problems, and hearing and vision impairment.

Treatment of cerebral palsy may involve an entire team of medical professionals such as physical therapists, psychologists, pediatricians and other specialists who can devise a plan of care tailored to the unique needs of the patient.

Depending on the severity of the child’s condition, cerebral palsy treatment may include:

• Physical therapy – Perhaps the most important of all cerebral palsy treatments, physical therapy involves exercising and training the muscles to enhance strength and motor control. Orthotic devices such as special braces are frequently used alongside physical therapy to help stretch muscles and prevent complications such as contracture, which limits joint movements.

• Speech and language therapy – Some children with cerebral palsy will benefit from speech therapy, which helps children to overcome communication difficulties or develop other modes of communication.

• Occupational therapy – This cerebral palsy treatment is aimed at developing the skills required for day-to-day living. For instance, self-care skills such as bathing and feeding are often addressed during occupational therapy. In some cases, occupational therapy can help children use special equipment that will help them in school or other aspects of their lives.

• Medications/drug therapy – Medications are often used to minimize muscle spasms and tremors in patients with cerebral palsy. For example, Botox is an injectable medication commonly used to relax muscles and control muscle spasticity. Other drug therapies may help treat complications associated with cerebral palsy, such as seizures.

• Surgery – Surgical procedures may be helpful in decreasing spasticity, improving muscle tone, stabilizing joints, and enhancing a child’s ability to sit, stand, or walk. Surgery may also be used to insert feeding tubes and control reflux.

• Hearing aids, eyeglasses or eye surgery –These cerebral palsy treatments can help children who have hearing or vision impairments related to their condition.

• Assistive technologies – New technologies are always being developed to help individuals with disabilities. Assistive technologies such as specialized wheelchairs, customized scooters, and communication devices can aid children in their daily lives and with tasks they may not otherwise be able to perform.

• Alternative cerebral palsy treatments – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), space suit therapy, hippotherapy, dolphin therapy and conductive education are some alternative cerebral palsy treatments that have shown promise in recent years.

• Clinical trials – The government conducts clinical trials to try and develop new cerebral palsy treatments and determine the efficacy of existing treatments.

The Cost of Cerebral Palsy Treatment

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition and treatments over the course of an individual’s life may total more than $500,000. Insurance may not cover all cerebral palsy treatment costs, and for those who are uninsured, the financial burden is all the more overwhelming.

In cases where medical malpractice contributed to a child’s condition, families may be able to obtain compensation to help cover treatment costs and other expenses. If you believe your child’s cerebral palsy could have been prevented, let one of the experienced attorneys at Burke & Eisner evaluate your case at no cost to you.

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 See Also:

•  CerebralPalsyCauses
• CerebralPalsyAttorney

Cerebral Palsy Law Blog