How hydrotherapy can help the symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement disorders. The exact cause of CP is not always known, but it is thought to be caused by damage to the brain that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. CP can affect movement, muscle tone, balance, coordination, and posture. It can also cause problems with thinking, learning, and behaviour. The symptoms of CP vary widely, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment.

There is no cure for CP, but there are a number of treatments, including hydrotherapy, that can help to improve symptoms and quality of life. Hydrotherapy is a safe and effective form of physiotherapy for people with CP. It is a type of physiotherapy that uses water to help improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Hydrotherapy treatment can be undertaken at any age from infancy through to old age and caters for children and adults with any level of disability from very mild through to very severe.

The buoyancy of water helps to reduce the weight of the body, which can make it easier to move the limbs and joints. This can help to improve range of motion and flexibility. The resistance of the water can help to build strength in the muscles. This can help people with CP to be more independent in their daily activities. The warmth of the water can help to relax muscles and reduce pain. This can be especially helpful for people with spasticity, which is a condition that causes muscles to be tight and stiff. The water provides a supportive environment for people to practice balance and coordination exercises. This can help to improve their functional independence.

The calming effects of the water can help to reduce stress and anxiety that can sometimes be associated with other forms of therapy and exercise.