Cerebral palsy as no specific cause and there is no cure. There are, however, treatment options that are provided within the medical field. Cerebral palsy treatment options are chosen based on the specific characteristics and needs of the individual with cerebral palsy.
Treatment can help a child improve muscle control and movement. Other treatments focus on problems with vision or hearing. They may also assist when seizures are a problem. A team of medical professionals will consider the child's needs and create a suitable plan. Tests are run and observations made to help in the determination of what will be in the best interest of the child. Treatment options available are:
Physical therapy - Exercising the muscles require having physical therapy. Physical therapy helps give some motor control. Sometimes devices are used such as braces or casts to strengthen muscles.
Speech therapy - It is sometimes difficult for patients with cerebral palsy to communicate. With speech therapy, the treatments allow them to communicate with other means.
Occupational therapy - Children can use this treatment to help you with the everyday chores such as eating or dressing.
Medication - 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 - At times surgery is another option for families that have children with cerebral palsy. This treatment can help stabilize joints, and improve tone of their muscle.
Hearing aids, eyeglasses - 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 cerebral palsy children in their daily lives and with tasks they may not otherwise be able to perform.
Other CP treatments - Other cerebral palsy treatments include dolphin therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). These assist patients throughout their years.
Clinical trials - Medical professional will conduct clinical trials to be able to try to develop new treatments for children with cerebral palsy.
The Cost of Cerebral Palsy Treatment
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition and treatments over the course of an individuals 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.