Cerebral Palsy Defined

Currently, there are about 764, 000 children and adults in the United States that have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Each year, approximately 8,000 children are diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Despite this alarmingly high prevalence, many are not especially familiar with cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy is often mistakenly referred to as a disease. However, it is actually more of an umbrella term for a group of chronic disorders that affect a person’s motor skills, muscle tone, and muscle movement. There are three types of cerebral palsy:

• Spastic – This is the most common type of cerebral palsy. It affects the body’s ability to relax muscles. This leads to tightness in the muscles and difficulties in movement.
• Athetoid – This type affects the ability to control muscles. This results in uncontrolled movements in the affected muscles.
• Ataxic – Those with ataxic cerebral palsy have difficulties with balance and depth perception.

With many of these conditions, a person’s speech may also be affected. The term cerebral refers to the brain; palsy refers to poor muscle control.

In some cases, the cause of developing cerebral palsy is unknown and happens before the baby is born. Sadly, many cases of originate from injuries sustained during the birthing process or soon after.

If the baby does not have a high enough supply of oxygen at the time of birth, he or she may suffer brain damage that may lead to cerebral palsy. Proper levels of oxygen are essential for the brain to work properly. At this point in the child’s life, losing a proper supply of oxygen at any point can prevent the brain from developing as it should.

Additionally, drug use may damage the brain and impair its ability to develop proper muscle controls. Alcohol use during pregnancy may have the same effect.

Medical mistakes made by healthcare professionals that can lead to cerebral palsy may include:

• Not consulting a specialist when necessary.
• Failure to order a Caesarean section (C-section) when necessary.
• Failure to detect problems with the baby’s oxygen level, such as a prolapsed umbilical cord.
• Improper or excessive use of a vacuum extractor.
• Improper use of delivery forcep tools.
• Failure to read and respond to the baby’s vital signs
• Conducting medical tests such as MRI scans or CT scans.

Genetic conditions may also play a role in developing cerebral palsy, though this is not the cause of the majority of cases. Premature babies are at a higher risk for cerebral palsy than other babies.

Though there is no known complete cure for any type of cerebral palsy, several treatment options are available to help. Many of these treatments can significantly improve a person’s abilities and quality of life.

A variety of treatment approaches may be used. Some of these approaches include physical therapy, speech therapy, psychotherapy, medication, surgery, and occupational therapy. Typically, a combination of these approaches is used to achieve the best results.

Physical therapy and surgeries may be used to decrease muscle stiffness and increase muscle control. Medication may have a similar effect in decreasing stiffness and reducing muscle convulsions. As medical research advances, new types of medication and surgeries are being developed that have stronger and more consistent results to treat the various types of cerebral palsy.

The effects of cerebral palsy conditions often go far beyond the physical realm. Many diagnosed with these conditions face serious bouts of depression and low self esteem. Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be used to treat behavioral issues and improve self-esteem. It is important for these individuals to get strong positive support from their loved ones, especially when young and undergoing these treatment plans. Many support groups exist for those who may benefit from meeting with others who live with similar conditions.

Cerebral palsy disorders are often very difficult to live with, but help is out there.

These Hubs are provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Professional legal counsel should be sought for specific advice relevant to your circumstances.