When evaluating the best approach to therapy for cerebral palsy sufferers, Dr. Rajas Deshpande, neurologist at Ruby Hall Clinic argues, people need to focus on “a multidisciplinary approach. Form a team to help you child.”

What is equally important for parents to assist their children with cerebral palsy is a change in attitude. While of course it is understandable that parents want to find a cure for their children, Dr. Anand Pandit, director of pediatrics at KEM Hospital, pointed out how crucial it is for them to stop seeking out “magical remedies” and accept the fact that – at least currently – there is no cure for this condition.

Basically one who has cerebral palsy needs treatment and care from a whole team. This incorporates a pediatrician (offering the overall management); orthopedic doctor; physiotherapist; neurologist and others such as a speech therapist and an occupational therapist. It seems that the experience at least that Dr. Pandit has encountered is that “a multidisciplinary approach helps tremendously.”

Indeed, it has also been found that even more specialists are helpful to assist those with cerebral palsy. Included in the list are: physiatrists; geneticists; a feeding and swallowing team; learning disability team; pulmonologists; gastroenterologists; nutritionists and more.

First, physiatrists can help manage a rehabilitation program. This includes: spasticity assistance; bracing; insomnia and sialorrhea. As well, they can administer intramuscular botulinum toxin type A. According to various studies, this approach, combined with occupational therapy, enhances functional outcomes in the upper limbs. It also resulted in an improved walking velocity.

Orthopedics can help correct structural deformities. It is wise to consult with one on the benefits of surgical intervention vis-à-vis hip dislocation; spasticity and scoliosis. Neurologists and geneticists should be consulted for differential diagnoses and to check for other neurological disorders, as well as assisting in seizures. Neurosurgeons can be helpful with spasticity and to perform the dorsal rhizotomy procedure, commonly used today in the treatment of cerebral palsy. Gastroenterologists can help with reflux, constipation and the regulation of weight gain or loss, and regular meetings with a nutritionist can protect against nutritional deficiencies and growth failure.