NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Cerebral Palsy (CP)
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is a disorder for which there is no know cure to date. It affects a variety of body functions, including muscle control, movement, and other neurological aspects.
CP is also a congential disorder, meaning that it happens during pregnancy or after birth. The brain is damaged in some way or form or has developed in an abnormal way. The cause of this is generally unknown. This damage prohibits the body from being able to control a variety of movements, potentially standing up, balancing, or even bladder and bowel movement control.
Learning disablilties later on in life are also common.
Remember, the severity of Cerebral Palsy differs, ranging from mild to quite severe. However, it is not a condition that worsens with age.
Types of Cerebral Palsy
- Athetoid Cerebral Palsy - Causes uncontrolled movements, sometimes inability to stand
- Ataxic Cerebral Palsy - Causes a lack of balance and vision issues
- Spastic Cerebral Palsy - Causes muscle and joint stiffness, as well as movement difficulty
While there is no known cure to date for CP, there are several options to help lessen the affects it has over the body. Occupational and physical therapy could help, as well as some medications and possibly even surgery.
Ask your neonatologist or pediatrician about groups and resources in your area that can offer assistance if your infant or child has CP.
See also:
• Kid's Health CP
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• Cerebral Palsy Source