The most common motor disability in childhood is cerebral palsy (CP), a group of disorders that affect the ability to move, balance, and posture. It occurs when parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture develop abnormally or are damaged. Different people are affected differently by CP, depending on its severity and type.
What causes cerebral palsy?
The exact cause of CP is not always known. However, some possible causes or risk factors include:
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Infections, bleeding, lack of oxygen, trauma, or genetic disorders can cause brain damage during pregnancy, birth, or early childhood.
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Babies born too early or too small are more likely to have cerebral palsy.
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There is a higher risk of cerebral palsy in twins, triplets, or other multiples than in singletons. Also, some fertility treatments may increase the risk of cerebral palsy.
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A mother's health problems, such as thyroid problems, seizures, or diabetes, may increase her chances of having a child with cerebral palsy.
What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy?
It is possible for CP symptoms to change over time and vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
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Symptoms include stiff or loose muscles, spasticity, rigidity, ataxia, tremors, or involuntary movements.
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Speech and eating problems such as speech delays, difficulty speaking, difficulty sucking, chewing, or swallowing, or excessive drooling.
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Vision and hearing problems such as strabismus, nystagmus, blurred vision, or hearing loss.
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Cognition and learning problems, such as intellectual disability, learning difficulties, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
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A problem with growth and development, such as delayed growth, smaller size than expected, or early puberty.
How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?
There is no single test that can confirm CP, but there are some tests that may help diagnose CP or rule out other conditions, such as:
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A physical examination to check the child’s muscle tone, reflexes, posture, balance, and coordination.
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A developmental assessment to evaluate the child’s motor skills, speech skills, cognitive skills, and social skills.
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A medical history to review the child’s prenatal and birth history, family history, and medical history.
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A blood test to check for infections or genetic disorders that may cause CP.
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An imaging test to look at the structure and function of the brain. This may include an ultrasound scan (US), a computed tomography scan (CT), a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI), or an electroencephalogram (EEG).
How is cerebral palsy treated?
A person with CP cannot be cured, but there are many treatments that can improve their quality of life. The treatment plan will depend on their individual needs and goals. Some common treatments are:
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Physical therapy to improve muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility.
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Occupational therapy to improve fine motor skills such as dressing, eating, writing, and using tools or devices.
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Speech therapy to improve communication skills such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
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Medication to reduce muscle spasticity, pain, seizures, or other symptoms of CP.
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Surgery to correct bone deformities, joint problems, or nerve damage caused by CP.
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Assistive devices to aid mobility, communication, or daily activities. These may include braces, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, eyeglasses, hearing aids, or computers.
How can you prevent cerebral palsy?
Some cases of CP may not be preventable. However, there are some steps that can reduce the risk of CP or minimize its impact. These include:
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Prenatal care and a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, such as taking folic acid supplements, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, preventing infections, and managing chronic conditions.
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Providing safe delivery and proper care for the newborn, including monitoring the baby's heart rate and oxygen levels and intervening early for any signs of distress or disability.
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Assuring the child's safety by using car seats and helmets, immunizing them against diseases, and treating any illnesses as soon as they occur.
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Providing early and ongoing support and services to the child and his or her family, including enrollment in special education programs, accessing community resources, and joining support groups.
A person with cerebral palsy suffers from a lifelong condition that affects them differently. However, with the right diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, people with CP can lead full and productive lives.
