Cerebral Palsy and the Potential Benefits of Occupational Therapy

 Posted on May 21, 2024 in Cerebral Palsy

While the exact cause of cerebral palsy is often unknown, the neurodevelopmental disorder is commonly a result of brain damage that happens before or during birth. There is no cure for it, but there are various therapies and interventions that have been successful in helping improve the child’s quality of life.

One of these therapies is occupational therapy, which focuses on developing skills necessary for the performance of daily activities. Children who can be guided to conquer these skills gain more independence. While it can be costly, families of children with cerebral palsy often find that occupational therapy is worth every penny. This article will discuss various ways occupational therapy can benefit a child with cerebral palsy. If this interests you, speak with a skilled Chicago, IL birth injury attorney to see what options you have for covering the related costs of occupational therapy.

Motor Skills

One way cerebral palsy affects children is that it hinders bodily movements due to imbalance, muscle weakness, and poor coordination. Occupational therapy can focus on enhancing motor gross motor skills, like walking and jumping, as well as fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt, drawing or writing by hand, and picking up small toys. While it may take time, occupational therapy that focuses on these motor skills can result in significant progress.

Pain

Cerebral palsy is often associated with pain stemming from muscle spasms or stiffness due to low muscle tone. Occupational therapy can help manage this pain by guiding children on different ways to move their bodies and hold themselves.

Independence

One way children with cerebral palsy suffer is that they are dependent on others for many aspects of life that other children their age can handle independently. When children improve their ability to dress, bathe, brush their teeth, move around, express themselves, and even play with others, it can boost their confidence and independence. Adaptive equipment is sometimes recommended to enhance the effects of occupational therapy.

Confidence

It is not easy to be a child with cerebral palsy. Seeing other children of a similar age with greater physical capabilities and feeling unable to socialize with them can take an emotional toll. Occupational therapy is often a safe space for the child, where they are surrounded by supportive professionals who encourage them and celebrate their wins. Occupational therapy can certainly be difficult physically and emotionally, but children often leave sessions feeling encouraged and confident.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Chicago, IL Cerebral Palsy Attorney

If you have a child with cerebral palsy, occupational therapy could significantly improve their quality of life. At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd., we are passionate about helping families get the treatments they need. Call 312-462-4200 to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Cook County, IL birth injury lawyer to find out more.