The lack of muscle strength and flexibility are two of the most debilitating consequences of Cerebral Palsy. Weak muscles cause patients to have very little control over their movements. However, due to recent technological advances, there are many different appliances that facilitate movement and help improve mobility and thus independence.

Wheelchairs and walkers are often considered a C.P. patient’s most dependable “friends”. A wheelchair helps a person move around, regardless of how weak their leg or arm muscles are. CP patients who have little control over their muscles use motorized wheelchairs.

A walker helps patients move around with a sense of stability, while retaining a large sense of control. This is typically used for people that are able to walk, but just need a little extra support and balance. There are many different types available. Most are light and adjustable, some have wheels which make them even easier to use.

Leg and arm braces also facilitate CP patients’ mobility. These offer the greatest freedom and independence. Braces are designed for each individual to ensure a perfect, comfortable fit. Not only do braces help support patients, they also allow them to get a good deal of muscle exercise. They allow more control over mobility by giving the user almost complete control.

A recent technological advance offers people with CP the opportunity to use a robotic arm for mobility. This device helps to strengthen the arm itself. Attaching the device to the arm of someone with CP allows the robotic arm to be trained to behave like a normal human arm. This helps patients improve balance, handle items, open doors, and many other daily activities.

Determined efforts are underway to build a robotic wheelchair which contains robotic arms. These computerized arms will enable the user to control them. The chair will help facilitate the user’s movements and mobility when they are unable to control their arms and would free them from their reliance on outside assistance. These robotic arms would give them the freedom to move independently, to work on a computer with less assistance or to even prepare their own meals.