Cerebral Palsy Orthotics in Belfast & Northern Ireland
Specialist orthotic management for children and adults with cerebral palsy. Comprehensive bracing solutions from HCPC specialist Jonathan Bull in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Orthotic Management for Cerebral Palsy
Understanding Cerebral Palsy & Orthotics
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement disorders affecting muscle control, posture, and movement. Orthotic management plays a crucial role in maximizing function, preventing deformity, and supporting your child's development and independence.
Goals of Orthotic Treatment:
- Improve standing and walking ability
- Prevent or slow contracture development
- Support better alignment and posture
- Reduce pain and discomfort
- Enable participation in activities
- Promote optimal motor development
Types of CP & Orthotic Needs
- Spastic CP: Most common, characterized by tight muscles. AFOs and KAFOs commonly prescribed.
- Dyskinetic CP: Involuntary movements. Positioning orthoses may help.
- Ataxic CP: Balance and coordination issues. Ankle support beneficial.
- Mixed CP: Combination of types requiring individualized orthotic approach.
Orthotic Options for Cerebral Palsy
AFOs (Ankle-Foot Orthoses)
Most commonly prescribed orthosis for CP. Controls ankle and foot position, improves standing balance, prevents toe-walking, and supports better gait patterns. Available in rigid, hinged, and dynamic designs depending on needs.
Learn more about AFO braces →KAFOs (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses)
For children with involvement affecting the knee and lower limb. Provides full leg support from thigh to foot, controls knee hyperextension or flexion contractures, and enables standing and mobility for more severely affected children.
Spinal Orthoses
Children with CP have high risk of scoliosis. Spinal bracing manages curve progression, improves sitting posture, and reduces pain. Custom moulded or off-the-shelf options available.
Learn more about scoliosis bracing →Upper Limb Splinting
Hand and wrist splints for CP improve hand function, prevent finger and wrist contractures, support better positioning, and enable functional activities. Often used at night or during specific activities.
Lycra Compression Garments
Dynamic orthotic Lycra garments (suits, vests, shorts, socks, gloves) provide graduated compression and proprioceptive feedback to improve posture, reduce unwanted movements, and support better motor control. Allard UK Elements garments work alongside traditional orthotics, offering all-day comfort and whole-body support for children and adults with CP.
Learn more about Lycra compression garments →Frequently Asked Questions
What orthotics are used for cerebral palsy in Belfast?
Orthotic options for cerebral palsy include AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses) for foot and ankle control,, spinal orthoses for scoliosis management, upper limb splinting for hand and arm positioning, and hip abduction bracing. The specific orthosis depends on your child's CP type, level of involvement, and functional goals.
When should my child with CP start wearing orthotics?
Orthotic intervention typically begins once your child shows signs of abnormal muscle tone, movement patterns, or developing contractures, often around 12-18 months but can be earlier or later depending on individual needs. Early intervention with appropriate bracing can prevent deformity progression and maximise functional development.
Will orthotics cure cerebral palsy?
Orthotics cannot cure cerebral palsy as CP is a permanent neurological condition. However, orthotics significantly improve function, prevent or slow deformity progression, support better movement patterns, reduce pain and discomfort, and enable greater independence. They are an essential component of comprehensive CP management.
Expert Cerebral Palsy Orthotic Care in Belfast
Book your cerebral palsy orthotic assessment today. We provide gentle, child-friendly care with comprehensive family support throughout Northern Ireland.
Call: 07727061400
Email: info@bullorthotics.com