What goals might my child with CP work on?
Sara Kester, DPT
It’s important to recognize that the child and family may have different goals than the physical therapist, regardless of the diagnosis. Family goals tend to be larger, long-term goals of what they hope the child will be able to achieve and minimizes caretaking. Physical therapy goals will be working towards the family’s long-term goals, however, they will be more focused on what needs to be addressed to obtain those long-term goals. For example, if the family goal is that the child will be able to sit independently for mealtime, the physical therapist goal may be focused on increasing core strength and balance.
Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) can benefit significantly from physical therapy to improve their quality of life and functional abilities. Some goals a person with CP might work on in physical therapy include:
Mobility: Enhancing their ability to move independently, whether through walking, using assistive devices, or mobility aids, to increase autonomy.
Strength: Building muscle strength to support better posture and stability, making daily activities easier.
Balance and Coordination: Improving balance and coordination skills to reduce the risk of falls and enhance overall physical control.
Flexibility: Increasing joint flexibility, which can alleviate discomfort and enhance range of motion.
Pain Management: Learning techniques and exercises to manage and reduce pain associated with muscle tightness or joint problems.
Gross and Fine Motor Skills: Enhancing motor skills to perform tasks such as feeding, dressing, and writing with greater precision. Weight bearing on arms and legs.
Functional Independence: Focusing on everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and self-care to foster self-reliance.
Communication: Incorporating exercises and strategies to improve communication skills and articulate needs effectively.
Equipment Assessment: Assessing and customizing mobility equipment like wheelchairs, braces, and orthotics to maximize comfort and functionality.
Social Participation: Encouraging participation in recreational activities and social engagements to promote social integration and well-being.
Pain Reduction: Developing strategies for pain management and increasing overall comfort levels.
Adaptive Strategies: Teaching adaptive techniques to cope with challenges in daily life, such as using assistive devices effectively.
Education and Support: Providing education and emotional support for both the individual with CP and their caregivers.
FUN: Every PT session should be fun for the child.
Physical therapy for individuals with cerebral palsy is tailored to their specific needs, aiming to enhance their overall well-being, functional abilities, and independence. Working on these goals can lead to significant improvements in their physical capabilities and overall quality of life.