Role Of Physical Therapy In Relieving Constipation In Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Physical therapy makes an integral part of the non-pharmacological, conservative management of cerebral palsy. Routine physical therapy aims to reduce spasticity, improve joint range of motion (ROM), and improve strength and mobility. Passive ROM and stretching of lower limb and trunk increases parasympathetic activity and thus improves intestinal motility in prolonged bed ridden patients.Abdominal muscle training improves intestinal motility by two ways: mechanically by improving fecal propulsion towards rectum and neurologically by inducing parasympathetic activity to improve intestinal motility.20 Thermotherapy of back and abdomen in chronic constipation patient improves intestinal blood flow and parasympathetic activity.