Neurological Physiotherapy
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy & Neurological Physiotherapy Adelaide
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a lifelong neurological condition caused by an injury or abnormal development of the developing brain, which affects movement, muscle control, posture and coordination. While the brain injury that causes Cerebral Palsy does not worsen over time (non-progressive), the way symptoms affect a person’s movement, mobility and function can change throughout life.
The type and severity of movement difficulties experienced with Cerebral Palsy vary between individuals depending on the areas of the brain affected. The main types of Cerebral Palsy include:
Spastic Cerebral Palsy:
The most common type of CP, characterised by increased muscle stiffness and tightness (spasticity), which can make movement more difficult and affect walking, balance and posture.
Dyskinetic (Athetoid) Cerebral Palsy:
This type involves involuntary movements, which may affect control of posture, coordination and purposeful movements.
Ataxic Cerebral Palsy:
This type primarily affects balance, coordination and the ability to control precise movements.
Mixed Cerebral Palsy:
A combination of features from more than one type of Cerebral Palsy.
Cerebral Palsy can also affect different areas of the body, including:
- Hemiplegia: affecting one side of the body (one arm and one leg).
- Diplegia: primarily affecting both legs, with or without arm involvement.
- Quadriplegia: affecting all four limbs (both arms and both legs).
How can physiotherapy help with Cerebral Palsy?
Physiotherapy plays an important role in helping people with Cerebral Palsy maintain mobility, improve strength, manage muscle stiffness and maximise independence throughout life.
At Advanced Neuro Rehab, we use evidence-informed rehabilitation approaches tailored to each person’s individual goals. Treatment may include:
- Movement-based rehabilitation to improve walking patterns, mobility and functional movement.
- Strength training to improve muscle capacity, support posture, reduce fatigue and assist with everyday activities.
- Balance and coordination training to improve stability when standing, walking and transitioning between positions.
- Stretching and mobility strategies to maintain joint range and help manage the effects of muscle stiffness.
- Walking and mobility aid assessment to ensure equipment supports safe and independent movement.
Our experienced neurological physiotherapists can also provide advice and support for many of the challenges that may occur with Cerebral Palsy, including transfers, falls prevention, exercise programs, mobility recommendations and functional assessments.
Many adults with Cerebral Palsy experience a reduction in access to structured rehabilitation once they transition out of childhood services. However, ongoing physiotherapy and exercise can play an important role in maintaining strength, mobility, confidence and participation throughout adulthood.
At Advanced Neuro Rehab, we support children and adults with Cerebral Palsy to remain active, achieve their goals and maximise their independence at every stage of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cerebral Palsy
Can physiotherapy help adults with Cerebral Palsy?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help adults with Cerebral Palsy maintain mobility, strength, balance and independence. A neurological physiotherapist can provide tailored exercise and rehabilitation programs to address changes in movement, fatigue, pain and function.
Does Cerebral Palsy get worse with age?
Cerebral Palsy itself is non-progressive, meaning the brain injury does not worsen over time. However, the physical effects can change with ageing, including increased stiffness, weakness, fatigue, pain or changes in walking ability.
What exercises are recommended for Cerebral Palsy?
Exercise programs are tailored to each person’s goals and abilities. They may include strengthening exercises, balance training, walking practice, flexibility exercises and cardiovascular fitness to support mobility and independence.
Can physiotherapy improve walking in Cerebral Palsy?
Physiotherapy can help optimise walking by improving strength, balance, coordination and movement strategies. Treatment may include walking practice, functional exercises and advice about mobility aids when required.
Why do adults with Cerebral Palsy experience fatigue or pain?
Moving with Cerebral Palsy can require increased effort, which may contribute to fatigue, muscle discomfort and joint pain. Physiotherapy can help identify contributing factors and develop strategies to improve movement efficiency and manage symptoms.
When should someone with Cerebral Palsy see a physiotherapist?
A physiotherapy review may be helpful if there are changes in walking, balance, strength, fatigue, pain or independence. Ongoing rehabilitation can help maintain mobility and support participation in everyday activities.
