Cerebral Palsy

The term cerebral palsy is slightly misleading in that it refers to a group of disorders, rather than a single disorder, caused by damage to the brain and marked by impaired movement and coordination. A diagnosis of cerebral palsy, ranging from mild to severe in nature, is given to one or two of every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. each year.
Doctors are still trying to understand how brain damage causes cerebral palsy, but they do know that damage sustained at any point during fetal development, during birth or within the first months of the baby’s life may result in this debilitating condition. Also, research has shed light on factors that may increase the risk of cerebral palsy and, in some cases, the condition may be preventable.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

The major types of cerebral palsy include:

  • Spastic cerebral palsy—This is the most common type of cerebral palsy and is characterized by stiffening of the muscles. The child may find movement to be difficult becausae of a stiffening in both legs, all four limbs and the torso or one side of the body.
  • Athetoid cerebral palsy – This type of cerebral palsy is found in about 20 percent of the people with cerebral palsy. This type is characterized by slow, uncontrolled movements affecting the entire body.
  • Ataxic cerebral palsy – This type impairs balance and coordination and is the least common type.

A child that displays the signs and symptoms of more than one type of cerebral palsy has what is known as mixed cerebral palsy.

Cerebral Palsy Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy vary according to the child and severity of the condition, but may include:

  • Tremors
  • Lack of muscle coordination or difficulty with precise movement
  • Spasticity—that is, exaggerated reflexes and muscle stiffness
  • Excessively stiff or floppy muscles
  • Leg or foot dragging, uneven walking
  • Drooling or difficulty swallowing

In some cases, cerebral palsy is accompanied by mental retardation or other complications. Extensive treatment and the use of special equipment may be required in cases of severe cerebral palsy. On the other hand, those with mild cases of cerebral palsy may require minimal treatment or assistance.

Cerebral Palsy Causes and Risk Factors

Some of the known causes and risk factors for cerebral palsy include:

  • Preterm birth and low birth weight
  • Maternal and/or fetal infections
  • Oxygen deprivation
  • Abnormalities in brain development
  • Severe jaundice
  • Injury during the birthing process

Not all cases of cerebral palsy are preventable. Medical negligence or inadequate medical care may result in cerebral palsy which may have been prevented with proper precautions being taken.  If you think medical malpractice is a factor in your child’s cerebral palsy, contact a cerebral palsy lawyer today to discuss your legal options.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebral Palsy

Children who are experiencing signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy should undergo a medical evaluation to determine a diagnosis. Initially, the doctor will check for muscle tone, reflexes and movement then follow this up with tests that may include and MRI, CT scan and others.

Once a diagnosis of cerebral palsy has been determined, the child will typically be referred to a specialist to determine treatment options. Various treatments can help to manage this uncurable condition and improve the quality of life for a child with cerebral palsy. Common cerebral palsy treatments include:

  • Physical, occupational and/or speech therapy
  • Surgery
  • Medications

Assistive technologies such as railings, wheelchairs, and communication devices can also help children in their daily tasks. Enhanced functioning may be experienced by some cerebral palsy children with the help of visual and hearing aids, splints and braces. And research into cerebral palsy treatments is ongoing, revealing promising options like dolphin therapy and spacesuit therapy.

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