CLIENT-CENTERED THERAPY IN CEREBRAL PALSY – A CASE SERIES

Background: This report describes the case series of four children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) [7] who were patients at Safalya Mind and Body clinic, Ahmedabad, between 2017 and 2023. The research elaborates on the client-centered physiotherapy approach implementation and its effectiveness, which involved the use of Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) techniques [3, 13]. Materials & Methods: The main goal was to exhibit the effectiveness of a personalized, goal-oriented strategy [11] in bringing about significant functional changes in various CP situations. The study engaged thorough, multi-disciplinary examinations, the tools like GMFCS, MACS, and PEDI being the part of assessments [6]. Results: Outcomes reflected real progress: a 7-year-old girl with Spastic Diplegia was able to walk short distances without a frame (6 months); an 8-year-old boy with Spastic Hemiplegia enhanced dexterity for buttoning and writing (4 months); a 5-year-old boy with Ataxic CP became the ability to ride a tricycle independently (5 months); and a 6-year-old girl with Spastic Quadriplegia sat unsupported for 5 minutes (3 months). Discussion: Such case series demonstrate the effectiveness of the transition from a focus on impairment correction to patient and family goals achievement [2] in combination with NDT, which is valid for various CP types leading to increased function, participation, and quality of life [1, 4]. Conclusion: The case series outcomes highlight the importance of the client-centered physiotherapy approach used in the management of Cerebral Palsy where, therapy goals become personalized, measurable, and most importantly, Neurodevelopmental Treatment is integrated effectively. Keywords: Neuro Developmental Therapy, Cerebral Palsy, Client Centered Therapy