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Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurologic (brain) disorders that affect the way the brain communicates with muscles. This can lead to lifelong challenges with movement, strength and balance. CP is typically characterized by muscle tightness, also known as spasticity. It is most often diagnosed at a very early age and occurs in about three out of every 1,000 babies born.
There are three different types of CP:
The specific cause of cerebral palsy is often unknown. It occurs when there is abnormal development or damage to areas of the brain that control movement. These issues usually develop when the baby is still in the womb but can happen at any time during birth or the first few years of life.
Many factors can increase the risk for CP, including:
Common symptoms of CP include:
As there is no specific test for CP, a diagnosis is made through an assessment of the patient’s medical history and a physical exam. A definitive diagnosis is often delayed until a child is at least 6 to 12 months, as babies develop and change so rapidly during this early time. Additional information is sometimes gathered via an MRI (magnetic resonance image) to capture brain images or through genetic and metabolic testing.
There is currently no cure for CP, but there are treatments to help minimize symptoms. Physical, occupational, speech and behavioral therapy are the most important treatments because they encourage and support movement, mobility, motor skills and speech.
Equipment such as leg braces, walkers or wheelchairs can also greatly help with mobility. We offer a Spasticity Clinic to help manage muscle tightness with medications such as Botox®, which is injected directly into the affected muscle group. Botox can provide relief by temporarily relaxing the muscle and allowing it to stretch. In some cases, surgery is a good option to help increase movement and positioning of joints in the arms, legs, hips or back.