Cerebral palsy (CP) is a collection of conditions that cause mobility, balance, and posture issues. The cerebral motor cortex is affected by CP. This is the region of the brain that controls muscular movement. In reality, the initial element of the word, cerebral, refers to the brain. The second element, palsy, refers to muscular weakness or difficulty with movement.

What are the different kinds of cerebral palsy (CP)?

Spastic cerebral palsy

The most frequent kind is spastic cerebral palsy. It results in increased muscular tone, inflexible muscles, and clumsy motions. It may sometimes just affect one portion of the body. In certain situations, it might affect both arms and legs, as well as the trunk and face.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy

It is characterized by difficulties regulating the movement of the hands, arms, feet, and legs. This may make sitting and walking difficult.

Ataxic cerebral palsy

It is characterized by difficulties with balance and coordination.

What is the cause of cerebral palsy (CP)?

CP is caused by faulty brain growth or brain injury as the brain is growing. It might occur when:
During fetal development, the cerebral motor cortex does not develop properly.There is brain damage before, during, or after delivery.
Both the brain damage and the disabilities it causes are permanent.

What symptoms indicate cerebral palsy (CP)?

With CP, there are several kinds and degrees of impairment. As a result, the indications may vary from one child to another.The symptoms commonly occur in the first few months of life. However, some children may not get a diagnosis until they are two years old. Infants with cerebral palsy sometimes suffer developmental delays. They are delayed to accomplish developmental milestones like rolling over, sitting, crawling, or walking. They could also have unusual muscular tones. They may seem floppy, stiff, or hard.It's important to remember that children without CP may exhibit similar symptoms as well. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, notify your child's healthcare practitioner so that you may get an accurate diagnosis.

What is the procedure for diagnosing cerebral palsy (CP)?

There are numerous stages to diagnosing CP:

Tracking a child's growth and development through time is referred to as developmental monitoring (or surveillance). If you are concerned about your child's development, he or she should undergo a developmental screening exam as soon as possible.Developmental screening is administering a brief exam to your child to check for motor, movement, or other developmental problems. If the screens are abnormal, the physician will suggest certain tests.To determine whatever condition your child has, developmental and medical exams are performed.

To make the diagnosis, the provider may use a variety of methods, including:

A physical examination of your child's motor abilities, muscular tone, reflexes, and posture.A medical history.Lab testing, genetic tests, and/or imaging tests may be performed.

What treatments are available for cerebral palsy (CP)?

Although there is no cure for CP, therapy may improve the lives of individuals who suffer from it. It is critical to start a treatment programme as soon as feasible.
A team of medical specialists will collaborate with you and your child to create a treatment plan. Typical treatments include:

MedicinesSurgeryAssistive devicesPhysical, occupational, recreational, and speech therapy are all options.

If you want to know more about Cerebral Palsy (CP), visit Dr. Amit Shah the best Neurologist in Mumbai, who will give you proper guidance and the best treatment to get well soon.

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