Cerebral Palsy
Symptoms
- Poor Coordination
- Stiff or loose muscles
- Weak muscles
- Tremors
Causes
Cerebral palsy is due to abnormal development or damage occurring to the developing brain.
This damage can occur during pregnancy, delivery, the first month of life, or less commonly
in early childhood. Structural problems in the brain are seen in 80% of cases, most commonly
within the white matter. More than three quarters of cases are believed to result from issues
that occur during pregnancy.
Most children who are born with cerebral palsy have more than one risk factor associated with it.
Cerebral palsy is not contagious and cannot be contracted in adulthood. It is almost always developed
in utero, or prior to birth.
Treatment
Physical therapy is one of the most important parts of treatment. It involves exercises and activities
that can maintain or improve muscle strength, balance, and movement. A physical therapist helps the
child learn skills such as sitting, walking, or using a wheelchair.
Physical activity helps stretch tight muscles, strengthen underused muscles, and expand range of motion
in the joints. Although any kind of exercise is beneficial, children with cerebral palsy will likely
be more motivated to participate in fun, activity-based, and engaging physical exercises.
The newest treatment for cerebral palsy is Stem cell therapy. It offers new hope for
people living with cerebral palsy and their families and makes the future of cerebral palsy research
brighter than ever.
Medication
Common classes of medications for children with cerebral palsy include:
- Anticholinergics (help reduce uncontrolled movements)
- Anticonvulsants (control seizures)
- Antidepressants (lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression)
- Anti-inflammatories (for muscle pain)
- Baclofen (reduce muscle tightness)
- Benzodiazepines (reduce muscle spasms, reduce anxiety, and help prevent seizures)
- Botox (helps to relax muscles; reduce muscle tightness)
- Muscle relaxants (to reduce muscle rigidity/spasticity)
- Nerve blocks (pain relief for chronic pain)
Prevention
The best way to prevent cerebral palsy is with quality medical care during pregnancy.
Quality care can identify issues that can lead to bacterial or viral infections.
In most cases, experienced doctors also do not need extraction tools such as forceps during delivery.