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. Approximately one to two of every 1,000 babies born in the United States each year is diagnosed with cerebral palsy, ranging from mild to severe in nature.
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 stiffening, which may affect both legs, one side of the body, or all four limbs and the torso, makes movement difficult for the child. • Athetoid cerebral palsy—About 20 percent of people with cerebral palsy have this form of the condition. It’s characterized by slow, uncontrolled movements that affect the entire body. • Ataxic cerebral palsy—The least common type, ataxic cerebral palsy impairs balance and coordination.
Children who display signs and symptoms of two or more different types of cerebral palsy have what is called “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. Severe cases of the condition may require extensive treatment and the use of special equipment. 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. However, cerebral palsy that results from medical negligence or inadequate medical care is, in many instances, preventable when proper precautions are taken. If you think medical malpractice is a factor in your child’s cerebral palsy, contact us 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. Usually, a doctor will check muscle tone, reflexes and movement first, and then follow up with an MRI scan, a CT scan and/or other battery of tests.

Once a diagnosis of cerebral palsy has been determined, the child will typically be referred to a specialist to determine treatment options. Though cerebral palsy is not curable, various treatments can help manage the condition and improve a child’s quality of life.

Common cerebral palsy treatments include:

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

Assistive technologies such as railings, wheelchairs, and communication devices can also help children in their daily tasks. Some children may experience enhanced functioning with the help of vision aids, hearing aids, braces, splints, and similar. And research into cerebral palsy treatments is ongoing, revealing promising options like dolphin therapy and spacesuit therapy.