INDEX: This section gives the descriptions of each section on CPC. You can also view the section's description by hovering the mouse over a section's graphical link.LIVING WITH CP: This section gives my personal experiences on how I love with my own CP. Many of you who are disabled will probably find much of this section's content familiar.TYPES OF CP: This section explains the common types of CP and their classifications based on how they can affect the body.EMAIL DATABASE: This database is the very heart and sole of CPC. It allows people with CP, both young and old, to communicate with each other and share experiences or advice.CPC DIRECTORY: This section is a list of links around the web where you might find other useful information on CP and other disability related content.DISABILITY BULLETIN: This section allows people to post disability related questions to other visitors on the site; announce medical studies; any other information not associated with any current section on the CPC site.SHARE A STORY: This section allows people to share their stories (both good and bad) about living with CP. This is a completely anonymous Section (at your discretion) so that you need not fear people finding out who you are if that is your choice.ADA LAWS: This section is a copy of the Americans with Disabilities Act information site. It contains the guidelines concerning the Americans with disabilities rights, fairness, and public access.AGING AND CP: This section is a report on how the aging process can affect a body with CP. This should be a must read for all visitors to the site. I will continue to add to this report as new information becomes available.
DISABILITY WORKPLACE: This section can be used as a tool to help aid a disabled individual looking for a job. You might be surprised at what some of the experts say about how to approach the job market when you are disabled.HOW SSI WORKS: This section will aid you in finding out if you qualify for Supplemental Security Income. These rules and regulations are plentiful. CPC strongly recommends you view this section before perusing the SSI route.MEDICAL NEEDS: This section lists online companies where you can purchase medical supplies and equipment. Ordering what you need online offers privacy, convince, and very often cheaper then purchasing from brick and mortar stores.DISABILITY NEWS: This section allows you to keep up with the latest news and events around the US and the world related to the disability community. The section is updated constantly so please visit often.AWARDS & WEBRINGS: This Section contains information about the many web rings CPC has joined and awards we have won. It also includes information on how to sign up for our very own web ring or award.FUN STUFF: Occasionally I like to have a little fun on the web. Here you will find information about my hobbies and my many collections of items. This portion of the site is not directly related to CPC. Its just for fun :o)CONTACT CPC: This section allows you to communicate with CPC is several ways including email, ICQ, and out guest book.RECENT UPDATES: This section can be used to find out what changes have been made since you last visited CPC. This page is always updated when CPC is updated no matter how small the update.CAUSE SUPPORT: This section tries to help disabled individuals by supporting several causes that actively promote the awareness and fair treatment of those with disabilities.
 THERAPIES FOR CP: This section discusses some of the different treatments used to treat CP. Some of these include Physical/Occupational Therapy, HBO, TES, Biofeedback and others. HELP: If you are not sure how to use CPC's menu system, click here to get a graphical description on how to use our menu system. Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Other Therapies Electrical Stimulation Pages

Other Therapies

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Below is a list of therapies common used to treat many types of Cerebral Palsy; along with a brief description of how the therapy works. You may click on the name of some therapies to get  more detailed information such as research statistics and stories of people how have tried the specific therapy. Below each description there are also links to organizations sites related to the therapy. If you would like to contribute to this therapy page with your own story, suggestions, etc, please send me an email though the Contact CPC button at the top of the page.

 

Speech & language therapy: 

A major effect of CP in several cases; these types of therapists help improve a person's speech or find alternatives ways of communication through electronic devices. Some speech therapists have additional training as oral motor specialists and can help with more serious issues with feeding, breathing, swallowing, and oral sensitivity.

 

Feldenkrais: 

One of the lesser known types of therapy, it is a body awareness methodology for learning how to hold and move the body.

 

Swimming: 

Preferably in a warmer-than-average pool. Any exercise or movement done in the water will be easier and more effective at exercising muscles. Recreational therapists may be used to teach your child how to swim. For some people with CP, swimming is their only independent mobility. I have personally tried this therapy and it can actually make it fun. Due to the body's buoyancy in water the body can move more easily and freely. I strongly recommend this therapy if it is available.

 

Horseback riding: (hippotherapy):

Benefits abound in the horse's movement, bonding with an animal, and it's just flat-out fun. Kids and adults who cannot walk get a sense of  what it feels like. Those with arm movement learn how to take care of these beautiful animals as well as learn to ride. This one comes highly recommended by just about everyone who's lucky enough to have access to it. I have yet to try this one, but I am anxious to.

North American Riding for the Handicapped Association

 

Craniosacral therapy:

a method of manipulating the head and lower spine, and thus the cerebrospinal fluid. May make movement easier or more coordinated. Results, if any, are generally seen in about two weeks following the initial treatment. Also myofacial release, a similar treatment done on "trigger" points throughout the body.

Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America

 

Botox (botulinum toxin):

 Botox injections are nerve blockers, similar to phenol injections but safer in most applications. Injections of this toxin in minute amounts effectively paralyzes the spastic muscle, giving the underlying good muscles a chance to strengthen. A physiatrist usually prescribes and administers Botox to specific muscle groups for a specific functional purpose, such as independent walking. Because it is reversible (it wears off in a matter of months), it can be used as a rough predictor of muscle- and tendon-release surgery. It is not considered a long-term fix for orthopedic problems but shows promise as a means to delay or minimize surgery. There reasons for very small amounts of this injection is because it contains the same bacteria that can give a person trichinosis (often seen in botulism).

Nutritional Supplements: 

While some prescription medications (such as Valium and baclofen) are available, these may not be the best choice for spasticity reduction. The addictive qualities of Valium, for instance, as well as the sedating side effects may interfere with movement and walking and thereby increase the chances of a fall, making these drugs undesirable for people who have a lifelong need for anti-spasticity substances.

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