Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Children With Cerebral Palsy

 Posted on November 03, 2022 in Cerebral Palsy

One of the most characteristic symptoms of cerebral palsy is difficulty with movement. Some sufferers of cerebral palsy have mild muscle rigidity or spastic movements while others experience debilitating uncontrolled movements, muscle spasms, and loss of control.

Although there is no cure for cerebral palsy, medical and technological advances provide both children and parents with hope. One option many parents of children with cerebral palsy explore is electrical stimulation therapy.

What is Electrical Stimulation Therapy?

Electrical stimulation therapy or functional electrical stimulation use electrical currents to simulate nerves in people with cerebral palsy, stroke, or other medical conditions. Some evidence suggests that electoral muscle stimulation may help children with cerebral palsy gain greater control over their muscles – especially when combined with physical therapy. Nerve stimulation may help children walk and play, reduce their muscle rigidity and spasticity, and increase motor function.

There are two main types of electrical muscle stimulation. Therapeutic Electrical Stimulation uses short increments of high voltage electricity to simulate muscles and make muscles contract. Threshold Electrical Stimulation uses long durations of low voltage electricity.

Does Electrical Stimulation of Muscles Help Children With Cerebral Palsy?

There is still some disagreement in the medical community about the effectiveness of electrical stimulation therapy for children with CP. Usually, multiple sessions are needed to achieve results. However, unlike surgery and other invasive options, this treatment option can be conducted relatively safely and even in the comfort of the child’s own home. Some studies have shown that electrical stimulation increases range of motion and has other benefits for children with CP. However, other studies have shown no statistically significant difference between children treated with electrical stimulation and children given a placebo treatment. If your child has cerebral palsy and you are interested in learning more about this treatment option, speak to you child’s doctor.  

Contact our Cerebral Palsy Birth Injury Lawyers

Some children suffer from cerebral palsy symptoms because a negligent medical provider made a mistake during their birth. If your child developed cerebral palsy due to medical malpractice, contact our Chicago birth injury attorneys for help taking legal action.

Medical costs associated with cerebral palsy can be extraordinary – especially if parents wish to explore cutting-edge treatment options. If your child’s condition was caused by medical negligence, you may be entitled to financial reimbursement for past and future medical expenses as well as other damages. Call our skilled team today at 312-462-4200 and set up a free, no-obligation case assessment.

Source:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1469-8749.1994.tb11909.x