The benefits of physical therapy for cerebral palsy

It's all about individual goals. Therapy focuses on mobility, strength, posture and confidence. Each plan is tailored to the person.

It depends. Some benefit from daily stretches while others need weekly physio sessions. Your therapist will guide you based on your needs and progress.

Make movement part of their day with short stretches in the morning, walks around the block and fun games that involve reaching or lifting.

The specific goals of physiotherapy are unique to each individual. Generally, physiotherapy can help to improve independence, reduce discomfort, support daily tasks and build confidence.

A physiotherapist may develop play-based exercises to improve balance, posture and fine motor control, all while keeping things fun and engaging.

Depending on your NDIS Plan, NDIS funding can help cover physiotherapy services, assistive equipment and support workers to assist with home programs.

Assistive equipment like walkers, resistance bands, ortherapy balls can support safe, effective movement.

For many people living with cerebral palsy, physical therapy can have a direct and positive impact on independence, comfort and quality of life.

Living with cerebral palsy means everyday actions like standing, reaching or walking can be challenging or uncomfortable.

Consistent physical therapy may lead to significant improvements with even the smallest of movements.

This article breaks down what physical therapy involves, how it helps people with cerebral palsy and how support workers on the Mable platform can help build exercise into everyday life for people with cerebral palsy.

Key insights on how physical therapy can help with cerebral palsy

• Improves mobility and strength to help people move more freely and with greater confidence.
• Reduces stiffness and discomfort. Stretching tight muscles can ease pain and support comfort.
• Builds daily independence. Physical therapy makes tasks like dressing, walking or eating more manageable.
• Supports better posture and balance, helps prevent strain and reduces the risk of falls.
• Is customisable to individual goals. Everyone's progress looks different and therapy can adapt to that.
• Can be supported by independent support workers on Mable who will help you sustain routines at home and in the community.

What is physical therapy for cerebral palsy?

Physical therapy is a coordinated approach to improving movement, strength and posture. For people with cerebral palsy, it can involve everything from gentle stretches to walking support or posture correction.

Physical therapy interventions for cerebral palsy vary widely. Some people need help with fine motor skills, like gripping or holding objects. Others may need to focus on walking, coordination or easing muscle tightness.

Key benefits of physical therapy for cerebral palsy

Whether it's paediatric physical therapy for cerebral palsy or tailored routines for adults, the benefits of exercise for cerebral palsy include better mobility, improved endurance and reduced muscle tightness.

Improves mobility and flexibility

Physical therapy can help people with cerebral palsy improve movement and long-term mobility by increasing their range of motion and muscle control. With guidance from allied health professionals like physiotherapists or exercise physiologists, therapy may include:

• Passive and active stretching to lengthen tight muscles and improve limb movement.
• Gait training to strengthen the lower body and support more stable walking patterns.
• Assistive devices like orthotic braces, walkers or wheelchairs to support mobility in daily routines.

Can help to reduce muscle stiffness

Many people with cerebral palsy experience something called ‘Muscle Spasticity', where muscles that stay tight even when you don't want them to.

Physical therapy focuses on reducing muscle stiffness by stretching tight muscles and promoting relaxation. It can also prevent permanent shortening of muscles or tendons, known as contractures, which can occur over time.

Common physical therapy approaches can include:

• Stretching and range-of-motion exercises to loosen joints and maintain flexibility.
• Weight-bearing activities to reduce stiffness in the legs and support standing or walking.

Enhances coordination and balance

Therapists often design playful or interactive activities to help build coordination. This approach aims to reduce the risk of falls and builds confidence in moving independently.

Physical therapy activities can include:

• Balance training with stability balls, balance boards or standing exercises.
• Fine motor activities like stacking blocks or grasping small objects.
• Adaptive sports and inclusive activities such as cycling, swimming or dancing.

Supports posture and reduces pain

Poor posture puts stress on the body that can lead to pain, muscle fatigue, and other health issues.

Physical therapy may focus on strengthening muscles that support the spine, improve alignment and reduce strain when sitting or standing. Techniques may include:

• Strengthening core muscles for better spinal alignment and to strengthen back muscles.
• Seating support with ergonomic cushions or specialised seating equipment.
• Massage or manual therapy to ease tightness and reduce pain.

Aims to prevent contractures and long-term complications

Without intervention, contractures can develop over time. Contractures occur when muscles or tendons become so tight that they permanently shorten, making joint movement difficult or impossible.

Accessing physical therapy options early can help to prevent longer-term issues in the future.

Therapies might include:

• Splinting or bracing to support correct positioning.
• Progressive daily stretch routines to preserve, maintain and increase joint mobility.
• Treadmill training to encourage active motion and prevent stiffness.

Best exercises and physical activities for people with cerebral palsy

For people living with cerebral palsy, staying active is good for long-term health.

If it's doable, joining a local gym or community program can also boost motivation, and provide social connection and support.

Stretching and flexibility exercises

Stretching and flexibility exercises can help reduce stiffness and make daily movement easier. Many can be done seated or lying down.

Exercises may include:

• Hamstring stretches
• Calf stretches
• Circling the arms, forward and back
• Shoulder rolls, forward and back
• Seated trunk twists
• Chest stretch
• Hip flexor stretch
• Wrist and finger stretches
• Seated butterfly stretch.

Strength and resistance training

Strength and resistance training can help build stronger muscles to support posture, movement and balance.

Exercises may include:

• Light resistance band workouts, like a seated leg press
• Core muscle exercises like seated leg lifts
• Bicep curls
• Sit-to-stands
• Wall push-ups
• Seated rows
• Grip strengthening.

Balance and coordination exercises

Balance and coordination exercises can be especially useful for reducing falls and improving independence.

Exercises may include:

• Standing on one leg with support
• Reaching for objects while seated
• Heel-to-toe walking
• Sit-to-standing
• Weight shifting
• Balloon or soft ball toss
• Navigating simple obstacle courses
• Using a wobble board.
• Gait training.

Cardiovascular and endurance activities

People with cerebral palsy can be more likely to experience cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or stroke.

Regular movement can help manage these risks and support overall wellbeing. Aerobic exercises can also improve mood and sleep.

• Rowing machine.
• Hydrotherapy.
• Exercise bikes, adaptive cycling or handcycling.
• Circuit training.
• Swimming.
• Dance fitness.
• Brisk walking or wheelchair pushing.
• Wheelchair sports.

How disability support workers can assist with physical therapy

Sticking to a therapy routine isn't always easy, but it's easier with the right support.

Through Mable, people living with cerebral palsy can connect with verified independent support workers who can support therapy-related goals, transport and encouragement.

Learn more about the support services you can find on Mable.

Occupational therapy and physiotherapy services

Some independent support workers on Mable are qualified occupational therapists or physiotherapists. They can assess a person's needs, recommend therapy plans and track progress toward mobility goals.

Assisting with home-based therapy exercises

Even small daily routines can make a difference. Support workers can help in a variety of ways.

• Helping to perform stretches and guided movements as prescribed by allied health professionals
• Setting reminders and tracking exercise consistency
• Encouraging proper technique and rest.

Encouraging daily movement and activity

Support workers can help turn regular activities into movement opportunities by encouraging guided stretches or mobility exercises within the daily routine.

A support worker may adapt a daily routine to include more games, short walks, kitchen activities or garden tasks, as well as any movement that involves reaching or standing.

Transportation to therapy sessions

Support workers may help to organise, as well as provide, transport to physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, or inclusive gym programs.

This may include:

• Preparation for departure
• Safe vehicle entry
• Travel to appointment
• Bringing clothes and equipment
• Arrival and check-in
• Travel home.

Assistive equipment and mobility support

An independent support worker on Mable can help with the correct set up and use of assistive equipment and mobility support equipment.

Equipment may include walkers, braces, splints or exercise tools recommended by a physiotherapist.

They're also designed to support everyday activities for people with cerebral palsy, both around the home and when going out.

Assistive equipment can enhance autonomy, improve safety, conserve energy and enable participation.

By providing hands-on daily assistance and encouragement, a support worker can be the difference between using equipment like it's a chore and creating a positive mindset around the chance to build independence and confidence.

Please note that NDIS funding to purchase assistive technology or equipment is handled differently by the NDIA and is subject to the specific requirements outlined in your NDIS Support Plan.

More resources on cerebral palsy and physical therapy

The Cerebral Palsy Alliance website lists a range of therapy, well-being and support services near you.

Find local inclusive sports programs and community exercise groups by exploring resources like:

• Disability Sports Australia
• Cerebral Palsy Sport & Recreation Association NSW
• Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association
• aaa Play

With the right support and a consistent approach to physical therapy, many people living with cerebral palsy see big improvements in how they move, feel and engage with the world.

Mable makes it easy to find the right support for your journey, whether it's a qualified therapist or someone to help you stay active day to day.

FAQs

The information provided in this article is general information only and based on current information at the date of publication. In addition to considering the information shared in this article, Mable encourages you to conduct your own research and seek independent medical advice relative to your circumstances. If you wish to use your NDIS funding on any of the services outlined above, Mable recommends that you check your NDIS Support Plan or speak with your Plan Manager to ensure that the appropriate services are coverable.