Some Physical Challenges Those with Cerebral Palsy Face
People with cerebral palsy deal with an assortment of physical issues, but not everyone is going to experience the same symptoms. Some people have mild cerebral palsy. While they may have a limp, they are able to walk on their own. They may experience a few other minor physical disruptions, but in general, they are able to perform daily activities on their own. Those with a moderate version may need braces, medication, and other adaptive devices to perform daily tasks. Those with severe cerebral palsy will require a wheelchair. They will face significant challenges in performing other tasks. Each person with cerebral palsy faces their own set of unique physical challenges, but here are a few physical challenges many people with cerebral palsy experience.
Balance
For many people with cerebral palsy, balance is a major issue. They often struggle to stand or walk, especially without assistance. Those who can walk may have an awkward gait. Their balance may be thrown off even more when the person tries to walk faster or run. Sitting up without assistance is difficult or even impossible for some people who have severe cerebral palsy.
Spinal Deformities
Unfortunately, some people experience spinal deformities, which may give the person a hunched or an otherwise curved back. This can also make walking, standing, or sitting difficult or painful. Unfortunately, the misalignment of the joints may put added pressure on the joints, leading to osteoporosis, degenerative arthritis, or other bone and cartilage problems.
Muscles
When it comes to the muscles, people with cerebral palsy can face issues on both ends of the spectrum. Some people have increased muscle tone, which results in stiff muscles. On the other end, there are people who experience decreased muscle tone, which leads to loose, floppy limbs. Some people deal with a combination of the two conditions. One part of their body may experience increased muscle tone while another part may have decreased muscle tone.
Coordination
Because of issues with balance, spinal deformities, and increased or decreased muscle tone, someone with cerebral palsy may also have trouble with coordination. This may manifest itself in daily tasks such as buttoning a shirt, tying a shoe, writing, or brushing their teeth. The person may be unable to perform the task, or doing the task might be difficult because of uncontrollable shaking or jerking movements.
Those who are able to walk on their own may still experience coordination issues with their legs, such as their legs crossing while they are walking. Someone who can walk without much trouble may experience coordination problems when trying to run or jump.
Pain
The pain may be chronic or acute. It is often in joints, such as the hips, back, knees, and ankles. With chronic pain, the person may be unable to perform certain physical tasks or may experience added pain when trying to perform certain physical activities. Acute pain may cause the person to have good days and bad days. This might mean something that was easy to do one day is difficult or impossible to do the next day. This can be discouraging, especially for children, who want to run and play like their peers.
Unfortunately, these physical challenges people with cerebral palsy face may lead to the person being inactive. This can cause greater physical issues, which could lead to poor overall health. Staying active should be a priority for those with cerebral palsy. This may mean getting physical therapy or other treatment.
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