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Cerebral Palsy - Low Core Tone and Degenerating Discs

shawntain
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03/24/2012 - 12:56pm
Cerebral Palsy - Low Core Tone and Degenerating Discs

Hello!

My three year old has low core tone due to a midbrain injury at birth.  He has mild/moderate dyskinetic CP. 

When he sits, he is often quite kyphotic.  He does numerous exercises to strengthen his core muscles and can now sit straight volitionally, but not for long.  He tucks his tailbone and it is hard for him to sit and stand (assisted) with a neutral pelvis, but not due to tight musculature. We work on this daily...

I am worried about disc degeneration over time, which is common in those with CP. 

Would you suggest an external trunk support or lumbar "corset" in the short term, to protect and train his spine until he is mature enough to understand the critical importance of stacksitting and correct posture?

Thank you!!
Jenny

charlenehannibal
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12/15/2010 - 7:51am

Hi Jenny,

 

Yes we would suggest an external corset to help him while he builds up his core strength.  Ultimately if you can continue to help him antevert his pelvis (not tuck) the will be less reliant on just his back or abdominal muscles to stacksit and stand well.  Sitting with a wedge and doing small squats (as though he is about to sit down in a chair) can also help the pelvis fall into a more anteverted position.

Best wishes to you and your son!

 

-Charlene Hannibal

Gokhale Method Teacher, Palo Alto and San Francisco

shawntain
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03/24/2012 - 12:56pm

Thank you so much for the reply, Charlene!

I have contacted a local corsetmaker and appreciate your suggestions to help with his pelvic tilt.  The whole family has been having fun practicing our ducky butts and tucky butts!!

Warm wishes and thanks again,

:-)

Jenny

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