When there is a brain injury the fascial system (the jello), collapses. From the research point of view, there are many theories behind why this happens, and many unanswered questions (check the linked papers below).
From our own experience, what we have learned from the work of Leonid Blyum and once we understand the biotensegrity model, most kids with cerebral palsy don’t have the right balance between tension and compression (they lack the right tension) in the fascial system. It is like the jelly melts and it doesn’t hold the structure anymore.
If the fascia is not properly tensioned and organized, then all the roles it plays in postural and movement control are impaired:
The posture collapses, like a tent with loose guylines, and the tension in the system doesn’t hold properly.
With less tension, there is not enough room in between the bones for the joints to be free and move properly. This is one of the reasons why kids move in block (all together)
The child’s proprioception (how they feel their bodies) is confused. Remember the sensors are embedded in the fascial system, and they depend on the right tension to send accurate signals. They can’t organize their movements and it is more difficult to regulate muscle tone.
The muscles lose their ability to glide properly, and the lubricant that allows this gliding glues together. The muscles are tight.
The fluid flow is restricted and the tissues receive less nutrients.
Not having the right tension in the fascial system challenges the homeostasis (the balance in our vital functions). https://fasciaresearchsociety.org http://www.biotensegrityarchive.org Lieber, R.L., Runesson, E., Einarsson, F. and Fridén, J. (2003), Inferior mechanical properties of spastic muscle bundles due to hypertrophic but compromised extracellular matrix material. Muscle Nerve, 28: 464-471. doi:10.1002/mus.10446 Gagliano N, Menon A, Martinelli C, et al. Tendon structure and extracellular matrix components are affected by spasticity in cerebral palsy patients. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2013;3(1):42‐50. Published 2013 May 21. doi: 10.11138/mltj/2013.3.1.042
WeFlow´s tip for you!
You can help your child with cerebral palsy by strengthening the fascial system (that is what you do with WeFlow Therapy). It takes time to remodel this system but it is possible.