What is the recommended principle for developing flexibility in persons with spastic cerebral palsy?

The recommended principle for developing flexibility in persons with spastic cerebral palsy is to stretch the spastic muscles and strengthen opposing muscles. This approach is critical because individuals with spastic cerebral palsy often experience increased muscle tightness or stiffness in certain areas due to abnormal muscle tone. Stretching the spastic muscles helps to improve their flexibility and range of motion, reducing the tightness that can lead to contractures or joint limitations.

Simultaneously, strengthening the opposing muscles plays a vital role in promoting balance and stability within the body. By enhancing the strength of these opposing muscle groups, it can compensate for the spasticity and develop better functional movement patterns. This combination of stretching and strengthening is essential in helping individuals with spastic cerebral palsy improve overall mobility and functional abilities while reducing discomfort associated with spasticity.

Focusing only on non-spastic muscles or only stretching spastic muscles would not address the imbalance that can lead to further complications and might not yield the best outcome for mobility and function. Strengthening only the spastic muscles can exacerbate issues related to muscle imbalance and does not contribute to overall flexibility and functional improvement.