Seating cerebral palsied clients in Western Australia—A team approach to problem solving

Abstract

Spinal deformity is a common complication in cerebral palsy and can cause secondary medical and social problems such as socially unacceptable appearance, limited arm and hand function, poor respiration, pain and social isolation.

This paper presents some of the processes which have been developed at the Spastic Welfare Association and Special Schools in Western Australia to ensure that clients maintain the highest degree of comfort and functional independence possible.

During childhood and adolescence every effort is made to keep the body, head and limbs in proper alignment by use of external postural support in conjunction with neuro developmental facilitation, active exercise and functional programmes, in a coordinated team approach.

When body growth is complete, postural support is maintained to prevent progression of deformity whilst clients are encouraged to take responsibility for their own welfare.