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 For
Cerebral Palsy Patients, Massage Makes Life Better
by Denise Edwards and Gary
Bruce
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Resources
for Cerebral Palsy
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This issue's cover story delves into the
conditions of this neurological disorder and how massage therapy can
bring relaxation and structural improvement to those suffering from
this affliction. Edwards and Bruce describe the conditions of Cerebral
Palsy (CP) and explain how symptoms can range from severe to mild.
Information on the connection between the brain and muscles of a CP
patient, and how a massage therapist "by using slow and repeated
movements" can "trigger a desired response (lowering of
muscle tone) by working through the pathways to the brain," are
explained by Edwards and Bruce. Since some CP clients may not be able
to communicate verbally, massage therapists are encouraged to pay
close attention to CP clients' breathing patterns and facial expressions
and develop an acute sensitivity to the clients' needs and comfort
level. Edwards and Bruce point out the hypersensitivities to sensations
some CP clients with brain injuries may experience and they discuss
techniques to assist the therapist in giving a gentle and non-irritating
massage. Goal setting for the massage therapist and the CP client
are discussed by Edwards and Bruce, for the importance of tracking
progress and to emphasize the therapeutic value of massage for people
suffering from CP. |
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