Cerebral Palsy is a neuromuscular disorder which is a result of a trauma to the developing brain which can result in deficits in muscle strength, walking quality, coordination, balance and reduced cardiorespiratory fitness. Can exercise improve these deficits?
While research regarding exercise and cerebral palsy is still in its infancy, there is great promise in how aerobic and strength exercises are both safe and beneficial for individuals with Cerebral Palsy. AS muscle spasticity and stiffness are common symptoms, Strength exercises seem counterintuitive and unsafe. However, studies have shown that strength training does not worsen spasticity during or after training but can improve spasticity. Improving muscle strength for individuals should then be a goal for individuals with Cerebral Palsy to improve cardiometabolic risk and increase muscular strength.
As with all individuals, participation in aerobic exercises is crucial for cardiovascular health as there is a strong relationship between cardiorespiratory endurance, heart health and quality of life. Studies have shown that aerobic exercises tailored to the individual needs and limitations of individuals with Cerebral Palsy is effective in improving cardiorespiratory endurance. It then comes down to finding a mode of aerobic exercises that an individual can consistently do and enjoy.
There is also evidence that balance training can benefit function in the affected lower limb for individuals with Cerebral Palsy. Due to muscle weakness in affected lower limbs, it is very common to see balance deficits with an associated falls risk in individuals with cerebral Palsy. It has been shown that improving lower limb strength, core strength and balance training can improve balance.
As exercise can be complex for individuals with cerebral palsy, consulting an exercise professional will be beneficial as they can tailor an exercise program for your individual needs.
Sources:
Park, S. I., Kim, M. S., & Choi, J. D. (2016). Effects of concentric and eccentric control exercise on gross motor function and balance ability of paretic leg in children with spastic hemiplegia. Journal of physical therapy science, 28(7), 2128–2131. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.28.2128
Verschuren, O., Peterson, M. D., Balemans, A. C., & Hurvitz, E. A. (2016). Exercise and physical activity recommendations for people with cerebral palsy. Developmental medicine and child neurology, 58(8), 798–808. https://doi.org/10.1111/dmcn.13053