Reflections on the Benefits of Myofascial Management in Young Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy: Two Case Studies

Abstract

This paper discusses in detail the treatment and observed outcomes of two children with spastic cerebral palsy who received Myofascial Structural Integration, a manual therapy that directly targets the myofascial system. It emphasizes the many qualitative and quantitative improvements observed, from the therapist, parent, and patient perspectives. It also briefly reviews three previously published studies on the benefits of Myofascial Structural Integration for Young Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, including suggestions for additional research with this population. Children with spastic cerebral palsy often experience difficulty with ambulation among other impairments. Structural changes in muscles and fascia may play a role in abnormal movement. Previous formal study outcomes have focused on quantitative data about mobility and found modest improvements. Through the two case studies, this paper will address other quantitative as well as qualitative improvements such as: increased height and weight, improvements in the quality of movement, balance, and coordination, increased confidence, and more maturity. It also discusses the evidence validating Myofascial Structural Integration as a modality to effect change in structure, posture, and myofascial tissue, and encourages additional research to support the many benefits observed in the studies and in clinical practice.