Assistive Technology Helping People with Cerebral Palsy
A variety of neurological disorders may be categorized under the umbrella of cerebral palsy which is characterized by affected body movement and impairment in muscle coordination which usually occurs during infancy or early puberty. A majority of infants born with the condition are not immediately diagnosed with the condition, although these conditions are generally caused by abnormalities in areas of the brain responsible for controlling muscle movements. Major symptoms of cerebral palsy usually manifest when a child reaches between the ages of two and three. Common symptoms include stiff muscles, exaggerated reflexes or spasticity, ataxia or lack of muscle coordination, especially when executing voluntary movements, unusual postures, and atypical muscle tone.
As of today, cerebral palsy remains incurable, although the main purpose of treatment programs for children with this condition is to help them cope with their disabilities. This in turn will allow them to give their lives a semblance of normalcy and allow them to live as normal as possible even with their condition. Treatment programs for CP is made up of speech therapy, physical and occupational therapy, and medications for controlling seizures, relaxing muscle spasms, and to reduce pain. Sometimes, a surgical procedure will also be performed in order to rectify anatomical abnormalities that come with the condition or in order to release tightened muscles.
On the other hand, assistive technology can also help children with cerebral palsy. With the help of assistive technology, children with cerebral palsy may become more physically competent and also give them enough independence in movement or in performing simple tasks. In line with Assistive Technology Act, assistive technology refers to any devices or product system that is used in order to increase or improve the disabled person’s functional capabilities whether these devices are acquired commercially or have been modified and customized by the patient to fit his or her direct needs.
At present, computer equipment including the growing internet technology help in empowering the innovations in the field of assistive technology especially for persons with cerebral palsy. Computer equipment today come with ergonomic devices that can help people with musculoskeletal problems to be able to gain some independence and perform tasks on their own with less assistance from other people. Other assistive technology comes with state of the art scanning equipment, nerve operated pointing devices, voice recognition programs, and on–screen keyboards among many other things. These things along with other technologies with similar concept help people with physical impairments caused by cerebral palsy.
But unluckily for some, a majority of these highly important and meaningful devices come at a price. A particular assistive technology device especially one with state of the art computer programming will certainly be very expensive. But there are institutions, both public and private, that help fund other people who may get interested in using the said technology. If you have a child with cerebral palsy and you understand how assistive technology can help the condition of your child, you can ask for funding assistance from these institutions to help you obtain one that will be the exact technology your child may need.
Origins of Cerebral Palsy is the comprehensive source for information on causes and treatment of Cerebral Palsy
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