CEREBRAL PALSY: CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PROBLEMS

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy / MPD/is a motor and postural disorder caused by permanent brain damage that occurred at an early stage of development. Cerebral palsy is the most common cause of disability in children. The aim: To present cerebral palsy as a clinical problem and to outline the importance of physiotherapy in the treatment of cerebral palsy patients. Materials and methods: The study included 67 children with cerebral palsy (mean age was 9 years) treated and followed up for 6 months at the “Górka” Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Hospital in Busko Zdrój. The clinical presentation was dominated by manifestations of motor and postural abnormalities resulting from upper motor neuron and corticospinal tract damage. A diagnostic survey was used as the research method. The physiotherapy and rehabilitation used in the patients consisted of kinesiotherapy (usually Bobath/NDT) and physical therapy procedures (magnetic stimulation, laser therapy, LED light therapy). The study used a survey questionnaire that collected information about problems with everyday life and functioning of cerebral palsy patients and opinions about their rehabilitation programme. Results: Follow-up data were analysed in patient groups, which were created based on the method of ambulation in children with cerebral palsy. The results emphasise the role of physiotherapy in the rehabilitation of cerebral palsy patients. Systematic motor rehabilitation contributed to an improved physical fitness and better everyday functioning. Parents of children walking with aids reported having problems with access to specialist healthcare, which resulted from the fact that they did not live close enough to an appropriate centre. Parents of non-ambulatory patients reported that they lacked financial means and parents of children who were able to walk unassisted complained of long waiting times for rehabilitation. Conclusions: 1. MPD is a difficult clinical and social problem. 2. Physical improvement procedures is an essential element in the treatment of this group of patients.