Physical Therapy Elements in the Management of the Child with Cerebral Palsy

Physical therapy (PT) focuses on the optimization of movement to improve health, function, participation, and quality of life through services for (re)habilitation, wellness and prevention, and enhancement of participation. PT interventions address all levels of functioning and health in the WHO ICF model across all stages of the lifespan and across home, academic, community, work, and medical settings. PT interventions for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) often focus on improving muscle performance, flexibility, body composition, and aerobic capacity, on pain reduction, and on prevention of secondary effects of the primary neuro-impairment underlying CP. By addressing impairments and facilitating movement within the context of complex, functional activities, PT interventions promote meaningful activity and participation of the individual with CP. In this chapter, the principles and key components of PT practice are presented, active elements of intervention that underlie PT effectiveness are highlighted, and an overview and general characteristics of the evidence based on PT interventions are addressed. The chapter concludes with a summary of current and future challenges and proposes strategies to expand the evidence base for PT interventions in a rapidly shifting knowledge base and healthcare provision system.