CEREBRAL PALSY NEWS
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"Circus Activities, Effective Treatment for CP"
November 20, 2008
An ongoing study at the University of Queensland, Australia has found in its initial phases that circus training can be an effective treatment for those living with cerebral palsy.
Cerebral palsy is an incurable neurological condition that impairs coordination, movement, thought processes and/or speech. In most cases, those living with cerebral palsy are born with the condition due to genetic predisposition, medical mistakes at birth or fetal development complications.
This study, headed by pediatric occupational therapist Leanne Sakzewski, is revolutionary in that it is finding new ways to address the physical symptoms of cerebral palsy while also motivating and inspiring cerebral palsy patients.
Physical Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
The precise impairments affecting a cerebral palsy patient will depend on the severity of this condition. However, common physical symptoms of cerebral palsy include:
• Spasticity
• Tremors
• Balance problems
• Lack of coordination
• Permanently contracted muscles
• Athetosis (involuntary twisting or jerking movements that typically affect the hands and feet)
• Toe walking (the act of walking on the balls of the feet without putting weight on the heels)
In addition to these physical problems, some cerebral palsy patients also experience vision and hearing problems, seizures and/or difficulty speaking. To treat these cerebral palsy symptoms, doctors usually prescribe glasses and hearing aids, various medications and speech therapy.
How Circus Activities Can Treat Cerebral Palsy
Some of the circus activities used in this study include:
• Balancing acts
• Harnessed trampoline jumping
• Harnessed trapeze swings
• Riding horses
• Simple juggling
By practicing such circus activities, cerebral palsy patients are:
• Becoming more dexterous
• Gaining more control over their movement
• Improving their balance and coordination
• Strengthening their muscles
In effect, these patients are undergoing physical therapy in an alternative manner.
Additionally, such circus activities put cerebral palsy patients in a fun, stimulating environment that not only inspires them to try their best at each treatment but also keeps them optimistic and motivated.
While this Queensland study has yet to be completed, it is expected to spark further studies in the same vein.
(Source: Medical News Today)
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