Occupational Therapy for Cerebral Palsy

Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Cerebral Palsy Works

The primary goal of occupational therapy is to help a cerebral palsy patient gain more independence in the world. However, inadvertently this can enhance a cerebral palsy patient's life in other ways because it helps improve the patient's fine motor skills, physical condition, and self-esteem. For most cerebral palsy patients, participating in occupational therapy is a very positive thing.

Children with Cerebral Palsy and Occupational Therapy

Although children do not technically have an "occupation," they do need to function in the world. For children with cerebral palsy, just playing can be a chore. During occupational therapy for children with cerebral palsy, the therapist will help improve the child's ability to perform daily tasks at home and school. Before treating cerebral palsy, an occupational therapist will evaluate a child's life and determine which areas to concentrate on to be most helpful.

Cerebral palsy occupational therapy is very involved. Children work on fine motor skills by grasping and releasing toys. They also practice handwriting skills and hand-eye coordination. Basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, brushing teeth, and eating are also addressed.

Occupational Therapy to Address Behavior Issues

Treating cerebral palsy can also help children with behavioral problems. Kids in cerebral palsy occupational therapy treatment will be taught anger management skills. They also work on fitting the child for special devices that help them function. This may include utensils, dressing devices, wheelchairs, bathing seats, and splints. In severe cases, the child may also learn to use a computer to perform tasks they are not capable of mastering. For instance, the computer can operate lights when the child blinks or nods his or her head.

Consult a Cerebral Palsy Attorney

For additional information on occupational therapy for cerebral palsy as well as other cerebral palsy treatments and assistive devices for cerebral palsy, it is important for you to contact a specialist in your area. If the cerebral palsy was the result of medical malpractice, it is imperative that you speak with a cerebral palsy lawyer for a legal consultation. You or your child could be eligible to receive financial compensation to help pay for treatment for this lifelong condition.

• Cerebral Palsy
• Treatments
• Physical Therapy
• Speech Therapy