Cerebral palsy caused by damage that occurs to the immature, developing brain, most often before birth. cerebral palsy causes impaired movement associated with exaggerated reflexes, floppiness or spasticity of the limbs and trunk, unusual posture, involuntary movements, unsteady walking, or some combination of these.
Children with cerebral palsy can have problems in swallowing and commonly have eye muscle imbalance, in which the eyes don't focus on the same object. They also might have reduced range of motion at various joints of their bodies due to muscle stiffness.
Hydrotherapy uses the properties such as hydrostatic pressure, buoyancy, viscosity and thermodynamics of water to uplift the health of these patients. No prior swimming experience is needed in getting these treatments done.
Why hydrotherapy is beneficial to children with cerebral palsy?
Hydrotherapy is highly beneficial for children with cerebral palsy because they have less restrictions in water. The water allows children to move freely than on land and complete a variety of exercises with a minimal effort.
These pools use warm water about33 -36 ºC and makes it comfortable to exercise and increase muscle strength as they help children with stiff muscles to move with ease. It also helps uplift the balance, respiratory function and increases the passive range of motion of joints.
This allows children to gain confidence by being able to move freely in water. There are no side effects that can harm the children undertaking the therapy.
The benefits of hydrotherapy for cerebral palsy children.
As exercises are performed in warm water,; leads to a reduction in gamma fiber activity which, in turn, reduces muscle spindle activity, facilitating muscle relaxation, and reducing spasticity.
Promote motor learning as Aquatic therapy provides many advantages to experience, learn, and enjoy new movement skills, which leads to increased functional skills and mobility, and builds self-confidence.
Reduce joint dysfunctions as compression of joints in water is less
Promotes core strength and balance Through Swimming ,Aquatic yoga,Water-based range of motion exercises,Balance exercises via flotation devices in deep water,Breath control exercises,Assisted walking exercises,Deepwater walking,Social games to help improve social interaction and eye contact.
Alleviates stress and tension, pain and discomfort
Elevates metabolism due to increased activity
Improves cardiovascular endurance since the heart pumps more blood per beat when the body is submerged into water
Elevates respiratory strength and endurance.
References
https://www.hydroworx.com/research-education/additional-resources/cerebral-palsy-aquatic-therapy/#:~:text=Hydrotherapy%2C%20also%20known%20as%20aquatic,and%20adults%20with%20cerebral%20palsy
https://www.boltburdonkemp.co.uk/our-insights/posts/hydrotherapy-benefits-for-children-with-cerebral-palsy/
Hanshani.
