Spastic quadriplegia is a type of cerebral palsy that affects both arms and both legs. In most cases, cerebral palsy is acquired when there is a loss of oxygen to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. This loss of oxygen causes a loss of brain cells. Subsequently, certain parts of the brain become damaged. When brain damage is severe, it results in the worst kind of cerebral palsy, which is spastic quadriplegia. Many people with spastic quadriplegia suffer from spasticity. This causes the muscles to remain contracted, which results in pain and stiffness.

Thankfully, for those with spastic quadriplegia who suffer from spasticity, there are some natural treatment options available. Here are three of them.

1. Cannabidiol (CBD)

Prominent studies show that CBD is an effective treatment option for spasticity. CBD is the active ingredient in cannabis, which comes from the hemp plant. When used to treat spasticity, CBD helps the muscles to relax and reduces muscle spasms.

It should be noted that CBD will not cause someone to become high, as the compound called THC is removed. It's this compound in hemp that produces psychoactive effects. CBD is available in many forms, including liquid, CBD gummies, topical ointments, and vapes.

2. Physical Therapy

Even though it might be painful for those with spasticity to move, physical therapy is an effective treatment option for reducing spasticity.  Stretching the muscles on a regular basis is especially effective since it helps to decrease muscle tightness and increase range of motion.

Those who have spasticity due to spastic quadriplegia are usually not able to stretch their muscles on their own. A physical therapist will be able to stretch their muscles and find other kinds of exercises for them. A physical therapist can also teach the exercises to parents and caregivers so that the exercises can be done at home.

3. Hydrotherapy

This type of therapy is done in warm water. A person with spastic quadriplegia will need assistance from others, or they can use flotation devices. Once in the water, a therapist can stretch their muscles, which helps to reduce the pain and stiffness associated with spasticity.

Warm water helps the muscles to relax, which is also beneficial for reducing spasticity. It's important to note that hydrotherapy cannot be done in just any pool. In order for the therapy to be effective, the water has to be the appropriate temperature, which is between 33 and 36 degrees C. This equals 91.4 to 96.8 degrees F. 

 

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