Neglecting Integration of Primitive Reflexes in Physical Therapy Plans for Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Brain abnormalities can cause a variety of movement and postural impairments, collectively known as cerebral palsy (CP). Though prenatal, perinatal, and neonatal hazards have all been linked to CP, the condition's origins are complex and have traditionally included elements like hypoxia at delivery. It presents as motor, sensory, cognitive, and behavioural difficulties, and many categorization systems have divided it into subcategories. Early infancy is usually the time of diagnosis; however, because registries are nonexistent in some areas, such as Pakistan, the incidence in that region is unknown. For CP patients, primitive reflexes—which are essential for healthy development—may continue improperly, affecting their motor abilities and sensory-motor integration. These reflexes are vital, yet therapy strategies frequently ignore them. However, new methods like reflex integration programmes have the potential to help CP sufferers achieve better results.