An introduction to treatments and therapies
Updated April 2008
The information in this factsheet is designed to give you an overview of treatments and therapies available in England and Wales for children and adults with cerebral palsy and other conditions.
Treatments and therapies may not be suitable for an individual’s specific needs. The majority of these therapies apply to adults and children but please check with the governing body or individual practitioner first.
Scope does not endorse or recommend any treatments or therapies and we would always advise consulting a Doctor or medical practitioner before undertaking or paying for any therapy.
Adeli suit – see Suit therapy
Alexander technique
This technique teaches the “use of self” and works through re-establishing the natural relationship between the head, the neck and the back - the “core” of the body that supports the strength of the limbs. Practitioners are known as teachers and the techniques are taught so it is an active and not passive therapy.
For further information:
The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT) – www.stat.org.uk, tel: 020 7482 5135
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the systematic use of essential oils in holistic treatments to improve physical and emotional wellbeing. Essential oils, extracted from plants, possess distinctive therapeutic properties, which can be utilised to improve health and prevent disease. Aromatherapy is an especially effective treatment for stress related problems and a variety of chronic conditions.
For further information:
The Aromatherapy Council – www.aromatherapycouncil.co.uk
The International Federation of Aromatherapists – www.ifaroma.org, tel: 020 8992 9605
Bobath
A type of physical therapy. The main aim of treatment is to encourage and increase the child's ability to move and function in as normal a way as possible. More normal movements cannot be obtained if the child stays in a few positions and moves in a limited or disordered way. The Bobath approach can help the child to change their abnormal postures and movements so that they are able to comfortably adapt to the environment and develop a better quality of functional skills.
For further information:
The Bobath Centre – www.bobath.org.uk, tel: 020 8444 3355
Botox™
The use of Botulinum Toxin A injected into muscle to act as a muscle relaxant. Botox is not a cure for cerebral palsy, nor is it a suitable treatment for all forms of cerebral palsy.
For further information:
Scope factsheet “Botulinum Toxin A” or available from Scope Response, tel: 0808 800 3333
BBC Health article - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/2910111.stm
Bowen technique
A soft tissue therapy. This technique works on muscles and fascia in a form of specific massage techniques that can be practiced over clothing. Bowen practitioners believe that this therapy allows the body to “reset” itself.
For further information:
The Bowen Association UK – http://www.thebowentechnique.com/, tel: 01373 461873
Chiropractic
Chiropractic therapy specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and overall management of conditions that are due to problems with the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves of the body, particularly those of the spine. Treatment consists of a wide range of manipulative techniques designed to improve the function of the joints, relieving pain and muscle spasm. Chiropractic does not involve the use of any drugs or surgery.
For further information:
The British Chiropractic Association – www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk, tel: 0118 950 5950
Conductive education
Conductive education is an holistic form of special education and rehabilitation for children and adults with motor disorders. It is appropriate for conditions where disease or damage to the central nervous system affects a person’s ability to control movement. It is an educational approach, the aim of which is to help children and adults with motor disorders learn to overcome problems of movement as a way of enabling them to live more active and independent lives.
For further information:
Scope Response, tel: 0808 800 3333.
The Foundation for Conductive Education – www.conductive-education.org.uk, tel: 0121 449 1569
Cranial osteopathy
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment which works with the structure and function of the body. Cranial osteopathy is a refined and subtle type of osteopathic treatment that encourages the release of stresses and tensions throughout the body through balancing the body and cerebral-spinal fluid. It is a very gentle approach and may be used in a wide range of conditions for people of all ages, from birth to old age.
For further information:
The Sutherland Society – www.cranial.org.uk
The General Osteopathic Council – www.osteopathy.org.uk tel: 020 7357 6655
Cycloidal vibration therapy
A relatively new therapy using mechanical vibration to provide pain relief, reduction in tone and reduction in muscle spasms. This therapy is currently being trialled in a Scope service. The equipment is supplied by Vibrant Medical, www.vibrantmedical.co.uk.
Dolphin therapy
Dolphin therapy has been reported to benefit people with many different conditions including neurological disorders, autism, cerebral palsy, Down's syndrome, global developmental delay, ADHD, pain relief for spinal injuries, muscular paralysis and depression. However, it is important to remember that little independent scientific evidence has yet been found to support these claims.
Dolphin therapy doesn’t claim to be, and isn’t, a clinical cure for cerebral palsy. Some people claim that some children with cerebral palsy have improved after receiving dolphin therapy. Research is on-going but there is not currently clear scientific evidence of lasting benefits, and conservation organizations have concerns about the impact on the dolphins used in therapy programmes. Dolphin therapy is comparatively expensive and not funded via any UK statutory agencies.
For further information:
The Henry Spink Foundation – www.henryspink.org (produce a factsheet about dolphin therapy)
The Marine Connection – www.marineconnection.org, tel: 020 7602 1574
Operation Sunshine – www.operationsunshine.org, tel: 01908 617318
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society – www.wdcs.org, tel: 0870 870 5001
G therapy
A homeopathic treatment pioneered by Dr Gunvant D Oswal in India. Treatment involves taking an oral combination of tissue salts and herbal extracts.
For further information:
The Centre for Life Sciences, Health and Medicines, Pune, India – www.g-therapy.org (Dr Oswal’s own site)
The International G Therapy Support site – http://www.health.groups.yahoo.com/group/g-therapy
Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy literally means “therapy on a horse”. This therapy involves sitting on a walking horse in a variety of positions while adapting to the horse’s movements, and working on co-ordination and posture. It is said that the movement of the horse stimulates postural responses and increases the base area of support. It can also affect muscle tone and reduce muscle spasm. Many adults and children also find it relaxing. The therapy is offered by Revive Scotland and is popular for people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
For further information:
Revive Scotland – www.revivescotland.org.uk, tel: 0141 945 3344
Riding for the Disabled Association – www.riding-for-disabled.org.uk, tel: 0845 658 1082
The Elizabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys– www.elizabethsvendsentrust.org.uk, tel: 01395 573009
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a holistic system of healing using remedies distilled from plants, minerals and animal sources. Homeopathy focuses on the patient as an individual and concentrates on treating specific physical and emotional symptoms.
For more information:
The Society of Homeopaths – www.homeopathy-soh.org, tel: 0845 450 6611
Hydrotherapy (hydro-physiotherapy)
A series of gentle exercises carried out in water in a heated pool (34C+). Children with cerebral palsy may find this beneficial as the water supports their body weight, enabling them to enjoy a level of movement and independence which they cannot achieve elsewhere. The resistance of the water can help to strengthen the muscles, and can also reduce muscle spasms.
For further information:
Contact your GP or physiotherapist
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the administration of 100% oxygen at a controlled pressure, which is greater than surface pressure. Treatment takes place in hyperbaric chambers, more commonly used to treat divers with decompression sickness. Research has found that oxygen delivered at a high pressure can promote healing of damaged tissues. HBOT for cerebral palsy is a controversial treatment as there can be increased risk to children with respiratory or hearing impairment. There has been little research carried out and studies have been inconclusive. There are currently very few centres in the UK offering HBOT.
For further information:
The Henry Spink Foundation - www.henryspink.org (produce a factsheet about HBOT)
The MS Society – www.mssociety.org.uk, tel: 0808 800 8000
Intrathecal baclofen
Baclofen is a drug produced as a muscle relaxant. It has been used to relieve the stiffness caused by spasticity. However, when it is taken orally it can have many side-effects, including lethargy and loss of balance.
With intrathecal Baclofen therapy the Baclofen is delivered directly into the spinal fluid by a pump that is surgically implanted under the skin of the abdomen. The pump delivers a small amount of Baclofen into the spinal fluid via a small tube. By putting Baclofen directly into the spinal fluid, the drug can act as a muscle relaxant and reduce spasticity in the lower limbs without the side-effects associated with the oral administration of the drug.
For further information:
Scope factsheet “intrathecal Baclofen therapy (ITB)” or available from Scope Response, tel: 0808 800 3333
Lycra dynamic splinting
Lycra dynamic splinting is a form of support, made from strong lycra material, which has been found to benefit many people with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy. Splints are individually designed to fit the whole or parts of the body and can improve tone, posture, control and patterns of movement. This approach was devised by experienced occupational therapists and evaluated by a multi-disciplinary team in Australia.
For further information:
Please visit the Second Skin website at www.secondskin.com.au
Massage
A hands-on technique used to stimulate the body through the skin. Massage boosts the circulatory and immune systems and can induce feelings of comfort, relaxation and well-being. There are various forms of massage therapy but Swedish Massage is the most gentle. In children and adults with cerebral palsy massage may help to stretch muscles and ease stiff joints, improving mobility.
For further information:
Scope factsheet “child massage” or available from Scope Response, tel: 0808 800 3333
The Guild of Infant and Child Massage – www.gicm.org.uk, tel: 01889 564555
General Council for Massage Therapy – www.gcmt.org.uk, tel: 0870 8504452
Occupational therapy
An occupational therapist can advise on equipment for disabled children and adults, and adaptations to the home and undertake functional assessments. Usually based in a hospital, school, community clinic or health centre, referral is through a health professional.
For further information:
Contact your GP
Portage
Portage is an educational programme for children who have difficulty in learning basic skills, due to either physical or behavioural issues. Portage is not available in all areas.
For further information:
Contact your Health Visitor
Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist specialises in helping people who have problems with movement. Therapy consists of natural methods such as exercise, manipulation, heat and massage to help develop good patterns of movement. Physiotherapists can also advise on the best ways of carrying, holding and positioning a child. Referral to a physiotherapist is made by a medical professional.
For further information:
Contact your GP
PhysioFirst (The Organisation of Chartered Physiotherapists in private practice) can give information on physiotherapists in private practice in the UK – www.physiofirst.org.uk, tel: 01327 354441.
Rebound therapy
The use of a trampoline for therapeutic effects in children with physical and learning disabilities. This therapy is usually carried out by physiotherapists.
For further information:
Rebound Therapy – www.reboundtherapy.org, tel: 08454 302031.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works on the hands and/or feet to enable the body to heal itself. Illness, injury or disease can cause the body’s energy (chi) to become imbalanced or blocked. Every bodily system and part of the body is linked to certain points (reflexes) on the feet or hands. Reflexology is a very powerful treatment and can be used to restore and maintain the body’s equilibrium and energy. The therapist can identify blockages and problems in certain areas and will try to promote healing and the free flow of energy. Reflexology treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.
For further information:
Association of Reflexologists - www.aor.org.uk
Federation of Holistic Therapists – www.fht.org.uk
Neuro-Respiratory therapy (the Scotson technique)
The Institute for Advanced Neuromotor Rehabilitation (Advance) considers the diaphragm to be the “central generator” on which growth, body structure and metabolic function depends. The therapy focuses on strengthening the diaphragm and reproducing many of the stages of respiratory development upon which, Advance proposes, neurological growth depends.
For further information: http://www.scotsontechnique.com/ (opens new window)
Selective dorsal rhizotomy
Selective Dorsal (or Posterior) Rhizotomy is a complex neurosurgical technique used to treat spasticity in the lower limbs. SDR is not a cure for cerebral palsy, nor is it suitable for the treatment of abnormal movements or balance problems. This is not a ‘stand-alone’ treatment as intensive post-operative physiotherapy is required.
Speech and language therapy
Speech and language therapists (SLT’s) assess and treat children and adults with communication and feeding (chewing, sucking and swallowing) difficulties. SLTs can be accessed directly (privately) or through a referral from a doctor or other health care professional.
For more information:
Contact your GP, paediatrician or Health Visitor.
Suit therapy
Therapy using specially designed suits (the Adeli suit, the Thera Suit) originally developed by the Russian space programme to prevent the detrimental effects of hypokinesis in cosmonauts who are exposed to prolonged weightless conditions. The suit is worn while performing other therapies and through repetitive exercises focuses on improving motor development, strength, balance, flexibility and co-ordination.
Since 1992 the Adeli suit has been used at the Euromed Centre in Poland for rehabilitation of patients with cerebral palsy, brain trauma and neuromuscular disorders. Since 2001 the Thera Suit has been used in the UK at the Cerebral Palsy Physiotherapy Centre.
For further information:
The Cerebral Palsy Physiotherapy Centre – www.cppcltd.co.uk, tel: 01525 718581
Euromed – www.euromed.pl
Thera Suit – see Suit therapy
For more information about cerebral palsy and Scope services
Contact Scope Response for information, advice and support on cerebral palsy and disability. Copies of all Scope’s information sheets can be downloaded from the website or obtained from Scope Response.
Scope Response hours are:
Monday - Friday 9 am to 5 pm. Closed weekends and Bank Holidays.
Scope Response
PO Box 833
Milton Keynes
MK12 5NY
Tel: 0808 800 3333
Fax: 01908 321051
Email: response@scope.org.uk
Text Message: Text SCOPE plus your message to 80039. (this is a free service)
Scope acknowledges the help and support of everyone who has been involved in the production of this information. This information can be made available in other formats if required eg. large print or tape. We also have information about Scope and cerebral palsy available in several languages on CD-ROM and can offer a telephone interpreting service to people whose preferred language is not English. Please contact Scope Response for more details of these services.
© We are happy for you to make photocopies of any part of this document. However, we would be grateful if you would attach an acknowledgement of the source to any copies.
