Cerebral Palsy Therapy in Brighton, MI

What is cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement and posture disorders caused by injury to or differences in the developing brain. It can happen before, during, or shortly after birth. CP is non-progressive, meaning the brain injury does not get worse, although its effects on the body can change as a child grows.

CP affects muscle tone, coordination, and control. Some people also have epilepsy, vision or hearing differences, feeding difficulties, or learning differences. Over time, tight muscles can lead to secondary problems like joint contractures, so ongoing therapy plays an important role.

Types of cerebral palsy

Spastic: Stiff, tight muscles and exaggerated reflexes. The most common type.
Dyskinetic: Involuntary movements that can be slow and writhing or quick and jerky.
Ataxic: Problems with balance, coordination, and depth perception.
Mixed: A combination of more than one type.

Common signs and challenges

Delays sitting, crawling, standing, or walking
Stiff or floppy muscles
Limited range of motion
Difficulty with balance
Speech that is hard to understand
Chewing, swallowing, or drooling challenges
Difficulty with hand use
Tiring quickly during activity

How therapy may help

Physical TherapyBuilds gross motor skills like sitting, crawling, standing, and walking, plus strength, posture, range of motion, and balance. Manages spasticity through stretching and positioning, helps prevent contractures, and recommends adaptive equipment. Intensive TheraSuit and DMI programs are available.

Occupational TherapySupports hand use, self-care, and participation in play and school.

Speech TherapyImproves speech clarity, language, and oral-motor skills for chewing, swallowing, and breathing. Introduces AAC such as picture boards or speech-generating devices, and supports social confidence and safe feeding.

Every plan starts with an evaluation. Which disciplines are involved depends on your goals and what the evaluation shows.

Specialized approaches

TheraSuit and DMI intensivesHigh-frequency, goal-driven physical therapy blocks using the TheraSuit Method and Dynamic Movement Intervention, led by a certified practitioner.

What to expect at Empowerize

Your therapist works one-on-one with you or your child to build a customized treatment plan. We collaborate with your referring physician and give regular updates on your plan of care. Families and caregivers are included in goal setting and home strategies.

Questions families ask about cerebral palsy

At what age should a child with CP start therapy?

As early as possible. Early therapy takes advantage of the brain's ability to adapt in the first years of life. We also treat older children, teens, and adults with CP.

What is an intensive therapy program?

An intensive is a block of frequent, longer sessions over a few weeks, focused on specific goals. It may benefit some children with CP. We can help you decide if it is a good fit.

Does cerebral palsy get worse over time?

The brain injury itself does not progress, but muscle tightness and joint changes can increase with growth. Ongoing therapy helps maintain movement and comfort.

Cerebral palsy (CP) therapy