Cerebral Palsy

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic disorders impairing control of movement that appear in the first few years of life and generally do not worsen over time. The disorders are caused by faulty development of or damage to motor areas in the brain that disrupt the brain’s ability to control movement and posture. Symptoms of cerebral palsy include difficulty with fine motor tasks, difficulty maintaining balance or walking, and involuntary movements.

Can Cerebral Palsy be treated?

There is no standard therapy that works for all patients. Drugs can be used to control seizures and muscle spasms, and special braces can compensate for muscle imbalance. Surgery, mechanical aids to help overcome impairments, counseling for emotional and psychological needs, and physical, occupational, speech and behavioral therapy may be employed.

What is the prognosis?

At this time, cerebral palsy cannot be cured, but due to medical research, neurological problems can be properly managed.

» top