Exercise Physiology for Cerebral Palsy: Building Strength, Independence, and Confidence

Creating New Possibilities at Every Age

Living with Cerebral Palsy (CP) comes with challenges—tight muscles, poor coordination, fatigue—but it doesn’t have to limit potential. Whether a child, teen, or adult, the right movement strategies can unlock new function and improve quality of life.

 At Exercise Matters, we help people with CP improve mobility, strength, and independence through personalised, evidence-based Exercise Physiology programs. Every step forward counts, and we’re here to support each one.

What Is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy is a neurological condition caused by brain damage or abnormal brain development—usually before or during birth. It affects muscle control, posture, and coordination. Severity varies, and symptoms may include:

• Spasticity (stiff or tight muscles)

• Poor balance and coordination

• Delayed motor milestones

• Fatigue and pain with movement

• Contractures or joint deformities

How Exercise Physiology Helps

Exercise Physiology improves functional outcomes and long-term health. Programs are tailored to individual goals and presentation (e.g., hemiplegia, diplegia, or quadriplegia).

Benefits Include:

• Improved strength, especially in underused or weak muscles

• Reduced spasticity through stretching and reciprocal movement

• Better balance and gait patterns

• Enhanced cardiovascular health and reduced fatigue

• Increased independence in daily tasks

  
  

Evidence: Verschuren et al. (2016) showed that structured physical activity in children and adults with CP improves gross motor function, fitness, and participation.

What We Focus On at Exercise Matters

Our Exercise Physiologists provide:

• Strength training (with bands, weights, or bodyweight)

• Functional movement practice (e.g., standing, reaching, transferring)

• Gait training and treadmill-based programs

• Balance retraining (e.g., wobble boards, step drills)

• Cardiovascular fitness (bike, rower, adaptive circuits)

  
  

We adapt programs for:

• GMFCS Levels I–V

• Children, teens, and adults

• Post-surgery rehabilitation

• Equipment users (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs)

Case Study: Lucas, 13, Spastic Diplegia

Lucas had difficulty walking long distances and participating in school sport. With a weekly program focusing on:

• Hip and core strengthening

• Gait coordination drills

• Functional balance activities

After 12 weeks:

• His 6-minute walk test improved by 120m

• His school participation increased

• He felt more confident walking on uneven ground

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What age can you start exercise physiology for CP?

As early as 3–4 years old. Programs are adapted for age and attention span. Adults with CP also benefit greatly.

2. Can exercise help with spasticity?

Yes. Stretching, reciprocal movement, and strength training reduce tone and improve functional movement.

3. Do you work with other health providers?

Yes. We coordinate with physiotherapists, OTs, GPs, and schools or support workers.

4. Can I use NDIS funding?

Absolutely. We support self-managed, plan-managed, and NDIA-managed plans.

5. Is it safe for people with more severe mobility impairments?

Yes. Programs are always adapted to match capacity. Seated, supported, or assisted movement is often used initially.

Your Movement. Your Progress. Your Future.

Whether it’s your first step or your thousandth, we’re here to help you get stronger, move more freely, and live more fully.

📞 Call (07) 5448 3532 🌐 www.exercisematters.healthcare

References:

• Verschuren O et al. (2016). Exercise and physical activity recommendations for people with cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol.

• Novak I et al. (2020). Clinical practice guidelines for CP. JAMA Pediatrics.