What is Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a non-progressive disorder of the Central Nervous System (CNS), acquired in early childhood or even before birth. It is caused by damage to the fetal or infant brain, for example, due to a stroke at birth.

Effects of Cerebral Palsy and changes when ageing

The physical symptoms can include spasticity, involuntary or uncoordinated movements, disturbances in sensation and perception, and many more. In addition, the symptoms can occur either just in one limb (monoplegia), one whole side of the body (hemiplegia), in both legs (diplegia), or all four limbs (quadriplegia), in differing severity.

For example, reduced muscle flexibility, strength and spasticity in both legs often lead to what we call “crouch gait”, with excessive flexion of knees and hips. This is a very energy-expensive gait pattern with a high impact on ankle, knee and hip joints.

Due to these significant expenses of energy and the overuse of specific body structures, it has been shown that age-related physiological changes occur earlier in adults with CP. The prevalence of secondary conditions such as pain, osteoporosis, fatigue and musculoskeletal and joint problems is higher in adults with CP compared to age-matched adults without CP.

How to Manage

To manage these age-related changes, maintenance and optimization of physical fitness are essential strategies. However, a different and more specific approach to training might be needed to address the varying problems arising with CP and age.

A specific strength program, implementation of stretches, or endurance training can assist people in dealing with pain, fatigue or loss of confidence.

If mobility decline becomes an issue, the use of a walking aid can help community access, increase walking distance, and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.

How we can help

Our multidisciplinary team of Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Exercise Physiologists and Orthotist can help you manage your symptoms and find a way to improve your quality of life.