Therapy

It is important that therapy for spastic cerebral palsy is started as early as possible. Unfortunately, there is no form of treatment that can cure this disease, since the brain is already damaged when spastic cerebral palsy is diagnosed. Physiotherapy plays a central role in the therapy because of the movement restrictions of the affected person.

Therapy concepts according to Bobath and Vojta play a role in this context. In both cases, the aim is to show the affected person how to use targeted physiotherapy to support him or her in posture and gait problems. Various drugs can be used to try to reduce the excessive tension of the muscles, which is considered the cause of many symptoms.

These include, for example, benzodiazepines or Botox. Orthopedics also plays a role in the treatment of spastic cerebral palsy. The movement of the affected person can be adequately supported by various splints or walking and sitting aids.

Since the disease can lead to a curvature of the spine due to the movement disorders, a corset is also useful in some cases. Surgical treatment options have their focus on the musculature. For example, the excessive tension of the muscle can be counteracted by lengthening a muscle tendon.This topic might also be of interest to you: What are the possibilities to solve spasticity?

Life expectancy

Life expectancy in spastic cerebral palsy depends on the severity of the disease. Unfortunately, this is usually very restrictive for the person affected, resulting in an inability to stand or walk properly. This leads to many other problems, such as a curvature of the spine, which can shorten life if the thoracic spine is affected. However, many patients with spastic cerebral palsy still reach adulthood with appropriate therapy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for spastic cerebral palsy varies depending on its severity. Some people with cerebral palsy can lead a relatively normal life with supportive walking and grasping aids. The impairment of intelligence is also not very pronounced in some cases. It is clear, however, that those affected usually need support in order to cope with everyday life. In severe cases, those suffering from spastic cerebral palsy may be considered to require nursing care.