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What is hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is a build-up of excessive fluid in the brain. The brain normally relies on a certain level of cerebrospinal fluid for protection and nutrients. A build-up of this fluid increases the pressure on the brain, which can result in damage to the brain tissue.
What causes hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus can be congenital which means your child is born with the condition, or can be acquired after birth as a result of injury or disease such as meningitis, head injury or a condition such as spina bifida.
Above: Functional rehabilitation through play activities overseen by a specialist physiotherapistWhat are the symptoms of hydrocephalus?
Symptoms of hydrocephalus in children may include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Problems with balance and coordination
- Gait disturbance
- Fatigue
Diagnosis of hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is diagnosed through clinical neurological evaluation of the brain using tests such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or pressure-monitoring techniques. A doctor will select the most appropriate diagnostic tool based on your child’s age, clinical presentation, and the presence of known or suspected abnormalities of the brain or spinal cord.
Above: Passive stretches and mobilisations to relieve pain and stiffnessHow is hydrocephalus treated?
It is important that normal levels of fluid and pressure are restored to prevent or limit further damage to brain tissue. Treatment usually involves surgery to insert a shunt which allows fluid to drain elsewhere in the body, usually the abdominal cavity.
Physiotherapy for hydrocephalus
Physiotherapy is vital following treatment to help restore your childs physical development, achievement of milestones, balance, coordination and mobility.
At Physio.co.uk, our specialist paediatric physiotherapists will provide specialist assessment and treatment of your child’s physical problems in order to optimise their functional potential and quality of life.
Physiotherapy treatment at Physio.co.uk for your will vary according to your child’s needs and age but may include:
- Activities to facilitate normal movement patterns
- Practising functional activities using games and toys to promote achievement of physical milestones such as sitting, standing, crawling
- Gait re-education to maximise independence in mobility
- Exercises to improve balance and coordination
- Exercises to stretch or strengthen tight or weak muscles
- Hydrotherapy to stretch and strengthen muscles in a relaxing environment
At Physio.co.uk your physiotherapist will initially assess your child’s movement and function in order to establish an individual treatment programme to maximise their potential and ensure they go on to make significant long term improvements.
Your physiotherapist at Physio can provide treatment for your child in their home, school or at our clinic.
For more information on physiotherapy for hydrocephalus, or to book an appointment please call 0330 088 7800, or book online today!
