About Cerebral Palsy

Name of the medical condition and other names that it’s been known by

• Cerebral Palsy (CP)

• Little's Disease

• Static Encephalopathy (not a common name anymore)

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy is a collection of conditions that impact how a person moves and keeps their balance. It happens because of damage to the brain or unusual brain development, often occurring before birth. It is the most common motor disability seen in children.

How is it diagnosed?

• Doctors observe the child's movement and development

• They check muscle tone and reflexes

• Brain scans like MRI might be used

• Blood tests to rule out other conditions

• Hearing and vision tests

• A definite diagnosis may not be made until the child is 18 months to 5 years old

How is it treated?

• Physical therapy to improve movement and strength

• Occupational therapy to help with daily activities

• Speech therapy if there are problems with talking or swallowing

• Medications to relax stiff muscles

• Braces or other devices to help with movement

• Surgery in some cases to improve mobility

Trend

• In the United States, about 764,000 children and adults currently have Cerebral Palsy

• About 1 in 345 children has been identified with it

History

Cerebral Palsy has been recognized for a long time, but our understanding of it has evolved. In the past, it was often associated with difficult births. Today, we know that it can be caused by various factors affecting brain development before, during, or shortly after birth. Scientists now think that only a small number of CP cases are caused by lack of oxygen during birth.

Cerebral Palsy - Sources of Information

• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

• Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

• National Library of Medicine

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.