A better future for Kriselle : a case study on cerebral palsy

Date of Completion

1997

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

Keywords

Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Children with cerebral palsy are often left with a long term disability that needs continuous rehabilitation and assessment in order to monitor the patient's progress or regression. Most of the time, however, financial constraint could cause less compliance to rehabilitation. Thus, an alternative home treatment program should be implemented. Kriselle Ramires is an eight year old, right-handed female patient diagnosed to have cerebral palsy, left spastic hemiplegia secondary to meningitis who underwent achilles tendon lengthening with osteotomy of left foot to correct plantarflexion contracture. Findings upon re-evaluation showed the presence of gait and postural deviation; dependence in activities of daily living; weakness of the left side of the body; limitation of motion of left ankle plantarflexion and trunk rotation on the both sides; presence of deformities on both feet and left knee; grade 1 spasticity of left upper and lower extremity; pelvic obliquity; and difficulty to express herself verbally. The recommendation consist of stretching of the left achilles tendon, trunk flexibility exercise, strengthening of the left upper and lower extremity muscles incorporated with play therapy, active range of motion exercises for both upper and lower extremities, exercises to correct flatfeet, and activities of daily living training. As for the recommended home modifications extra lighting above the stairs was placed and the objects on the stair walls were removed to avid any distractions. The mother bought a plastic footstool to support the legs of the patient while eating and to reach easily the faucet when washing hands. They will be able to realize that children should be seen in a different light from adults and that child care is very vital because they are still in the process of development. One thing to be considered is that a child cannot go on living under someone's supervision throughout his or her life and that independence in what ever she or she does is important. This case study aims to promote a better life for the patient wherein she can be more independent through proper training in her activities of daily living and by suggesting home modifications for the child's safety. It also aims to improve the patient's social skills through the advises given to the mother that she needs to be patient and encourage her child to interact with other children.

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