Cerebral palsy

Introduction

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and muscle tone. It is caused by abnormal development or damage to the brain, most often occurring before or at birth. Cerebral palsy affects people in different ways and can range from mild to severe. It can cause problems with movement, muscle control, muscle coordination, muscle tone, reflexes, balance, and posture. It can also affect a person's ability to speak, hear, and see. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatment and therapy can help improve function and reduce symptoms.

Symptoms

Lack of muscle control or coordination
Stiff or tight muscles
Weakness in the arms or legs
Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning a shirt
Tremors or involuntary movements
Abnormal posture or difficulty with balance
Difficulty with speech or swallowing
Delays in reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting up, crawling, or walking

Some people with cerebral palsy may have other health problems as well, such as seizures, vision or hearing impairments, or intellectual disabilities.

Causes

Lack of oxygen to the brain (asphyxia) during birth
Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella or cytomegalovirus
Trauma during birth, such as a difficult or prolonged delivery
Bleeding or swelling in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage) in the newborn period
Abnormal brain development before or during pregnancy

Risk factors

Premature birth (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
Low birth weight
Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
Pregnancy complications, such as infection or bleeding
Difficult or prolonged labor
Abnormal presentation of the baby during delivery (breech position, for example)
Birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities
Severe jaundice in the newborn period

Complications

Developmental delays: Children with cerebral palsy may have delays in reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting up, crawling, and walking.
Intellectual disability: Some children with cerebral palsy may have intellectual disability, which is a deficit in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior.
Seizures: Children with cerebral palsy may have a higher risk of developing seizures.
Vision and hearing impairments: Vision and hearing impairments are more common in children with cerebral palsy.
Orthopedic problems: Children with cerebral palsy may have problems with their bones, joints, or muscles that can cause pain, difficulty with movement, or deformities.
Mental health problems: Children with cerebral palsy may experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems.

How to diagnose

Cerebral palsy is usually diagnosed in the first few years of a child's life. A healthcare provider will consider the child's medical history, conduct a physical examination, and observe the child's movement and muscle tone. The provider may also order several tests to help diagnose cerebral palsy, including:

Imaging tests: These tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, create pictures of the brain and can help show any abnormalities or damage.
Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles.
Nerve conduction studies: This test measures the speed of nerve signals in the body.
Developmental assessments: These assessments, such as the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, can help determine a child's developmental age and identify delays.

A healthcare provider may also refer the child to specialists, such as a neurologist or physical therapist, to help with the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy.

How to prevent

Get early and regular prenatal care: Prenatal care is important for the health of both the mother and the baby. Regular check-ups can help identify and manage any problems that may arise during pregnancy.
Avoid certain infections: Some infections during pregnancy, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus, can increase the risk of cerebral palsy. Getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of these infections.
Avoid risky behaviors: Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of cerebral palsy and other developmental problems.
Get early and regular well-baby check-ups: Early detection and treatment of any problems can help prevent or minimize the impact of cerebral palsy or other developmental delays.

When you need to see a doctor

It is important to see a doctor if you notice any delays or problems with your child's development. Since every child develops at their pace, it is normal to have some kind of variation in their development.

FAQs

Is cerebral palsy curable?

There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatment and therapy can help improve function and reduce symptoms.

Is cerebral palsy hereditary?

No, cerebral palsy is not hereditary. It is caused by abnormal development or damage to the brain, most often occurring before or at birth.

Does cerebral palsy get worse over time?

No, cerebral palsy is not a progressive disorder, meaning it does not get worse over time. However, the symptoms may change over time as the child grows and develops.

Can children with cerebral palsy lead normal lives?

With the right treatment and support, many children with cerebral palsy can lead fulfilling and independent lives. The impact of cerebral palsy on a child's life will depend on the severity of their condition and any associated complications.

Is cerebral palsy a progressive disorder?

Cerebral palsy is not a progressive disorder, meaning it does not get worse over time. However, the symptoms may change over time as the child grows and develops.

Is cerebral palsy painful?

Cerebral palsy itself is not painful, but some children with cerebral palsy may experience pain due to related conditions, such as muscle spasms or orthopedic problems. Treatment can help manage pain and improve quality of life.

Visit a doctor when you are suffering from cerebral palsy!