Helping clients with cerebral palsy: A personalised approach to independence and mobility

By Mike Frankling, RMR Rehabilitation

At RMR, we are dedicated to supporting individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP) (movement order) and those recovering from Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) (muscle tightness), helping them to achieve more than just physical improvement.

Our mission is to empower our clients to lead fuller and more independent lives.

Recognising that every individual’s journey is unique, we design bespoke fitness and rehabilitation programmes tailored to each person’s specific needs.

By working in close collaboration with physiotherapists, we ensure our approach complements clinical care, supporting physical development while also fostering self-efficacy and emotional well-being throughout the rehabilitation process.

Who Are Our Clients?

At RMR, we work with clients of all ages, from children to adults, who are living with CP or recovering from SDR.

We have trainers available across England and South Wales, and we are proud to provide care that is accessible to a wide range of individuals.

No matter the age or stage of life, we tailor our services to meet the unique needs and goals of each person, helping them make meaningful progress and achieve greater independence.

A Customised Approach for Better Results

We believe that every client deserves a plan that is specifically designed for them.

Having worked with clients across the entire Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) scale, we understand that the challenges and priorities of each individual can vary greatly.

Whether it’s designing programmes to help reduce plantarflexion or ‘tiptoe’ posture and improving walking, running and playing, addressing muscular and postural imbalances in hemiplegic (one-sided-paralysis or weakness of the face, arm or leg) cases through a focus on trunk control and improving range of motion, we can help.

By implementing axial loading exercises for clients who spend the majority of their time in a wheelchair to prevent secondary issues such as osteoporosis (a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures), we recognise the importance of a person-centred approach.

Collaborating within Multidisciplinary Teams for Holistic Care

We place great value on interdisciplinary collaboration.

By maintaining close working relationships with physiotherapists, occupational therapists and case managers, we ensure our programmes align with clinical priorities and support the client’s therapeutic journey.

This partnership allows us to deliver well-rounded care that focuses on improving function and mobility, reducing spasticity and tightness, enhancing postural alignment, and supporting the development of both gross and fine motor skills.

This integrative approach gives our clients the best possible opportunity to thrive.

Promoting Physical and Emotional Well-being

True rehabilitation involves more than just the body—it must also support the mind.

Our approach is designed not only to improve physical capabilities but also to nurture confidence, emotional resilience and a sense of autonomy.

Through engaging, achievable and motivating sessions, we help clients to feel more in control of their lives and encourage a positive outlook on their progress.

Exercise provides an excellent medium for developing self-efficacy.

By setting realistic, attainable goals, we help our clients experience success and build the belief that consistent effort leads to meaningful change.

Time and again, we see how this empowerment can positively influence a person’s self-perception and extend its benefits into other aspects of their life.

A Commitment to Long-Term Success

We take immense pride in the work we do.

Our commitment extends beyond short-term gains—we focus on long-term success by equipping clients with the skills, mindset and support they need to face life’s challenges with confidence and independence.

Furthermore, our team remains dedicated to professional excellence, regularly engaging in ongoing training and development to ensure we continue to deliver the highest standard of care.

Ready to Get Started?

If you or someone you know is looking for personalised training that supports both physical and emotional well-being, contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

Together, we can create a plan to help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life.

To find a trainer near you, visit our website at https://www.rmr-rehabilitation.co.uk/personal-trainers