Washington University Study Focuses On Alternative Cerebral Palsy Treatment

Doctors at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis are working on a study aimed at helping those suffering from cerebral palsy by providing an alternative to surgery. Cerebral palsy – a brain disorder that restricts mobility – has a tendency to harm the ankles. So, a lot of the treatment focuses on strengthening the ankles … through surgery. Doctor Jack Engsberg and his team want to replace surgery with strengthening exercises. He says this kind of treatment would be less painful and less expensive. While not restricted to children, the research is centering on kids because older patients usually have a more difficult time going through treatment programs.