Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, posture, and coordination. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, usually before, during, or shortly after birth.
Key Features
- Delayed motor milestones (e.g., sitting, crawling, walking)
- Abnormal muscle tone (too stiff or too floppy)
- Poor coordination and balance
- Involuntary movements or tremors
- Difficulties with speech, vision, or learning (in some cases)
Types of Cerebral Palsy
- Spastic CP – Muscle stiffness; most common type
- Dyskinetic CP – Involuntary movements
- Ataxic CP – Balance and coordination issues
- Mixed CP – Combination of symptoms above
Causes & Risk Factors
- Birth asphyxia (lack of oxygen during birth)
- Premature birth
- Brain infections (meningitis, encephalitis)
- Genetic or metabolic disorders
- Head injury in infancy
Diagnosis
- Clinical assessment by pediatric neurologist or orthopaedist
- MRI or CT scan of the brain
- Developmental screening
Treatment & Management
Multidisciplinary Care
- Pediatric orthopaedist
- Neurologist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational & speech therapists
Therapies
- Physiotherapy: Improve strength, balance, and mobility
- Occupational therapy: Daily living skills
- Speech therapy: Communication & feeding issues
Medications
- For muscle stiffness or seizures
Surgical Options
- Orthopaedic surgery for contractures or deformities
- Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) for severe spasticity
- Use of orthoses (AFOs, braces) for support