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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

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:

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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!