Cerebral Palsy
Movement & Posture Disorders
Understanding Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood.
CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects a person’s ability to control his or her muscles. The symptoms vary from person to person, ranging from mild clumsiness to severe physical impairment.
Main Types of Cerebral Palsy
Spastic CP
The most common type (about 80%). Muscles are stiff and movement is awkward. It can affect legs (diplegia), one side of the body (hemiplegia), or all four limbs (quadriplegia).
Dyskinetic CP
Characterized by uncontrollable movements. Movements can be slow and writhing or rapid and jerky. It affects the ability to sit, walk, and speak.
Ataxic CP
Affects balance and coordination. Children may walk unsteadily and have a hard time with quick movements or movements that require a lot of control, like writing.
Early Signs & Symptoms
Delays in reaching motor milestones (rolling over, sitting up, crawling).
Variations in muscle tone (too stiff or too floppy).
Favoring one side of the body (reaching with one hand only).
Difficulty with precise motions like picking up a spoon.
Excessive drooling or problems with swallowing.
Delays in speech development or difficulty speaking.
Comprehensive Care at BrainTree
While CP is a lifelong condition, therapy can significantly improve independence. We offer physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy tailored for CP management.
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