Upper limb orthoses use in neuromuscular chemical blockade protocols in patients diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy: a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy is the most common cause of physical dysfunction in childhood, impacting physical, functional, emotional, financial, and social aspects. This creates the need for continuous health monitoring in rehabilitation, education, and social support services. Method: This is a descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional literature review. A systematic survey was conducted in national and international databases and journals covering both general and specific occupational therapy and hand therapy. Results: A study on neuromuscular blockade practices for the treatment of spasticity in Brazil revealed that the most common muscle groups are: wrist flexor and/or extensor, elbow flexor and/or extensor, and finger flexor and/or extensor, surpassed only by blocks of the triceps surae, adductors, and hamstrings, thus highlighting the relevance of this approach in the upper limbs. Final Considerations: The level of scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions with this population was significant, raising the urgent need to document hand therapy protocols, orthotics, and motor skill and component training.