Definition
Cerebral palsy is a group of chronic disorders impairing control of movement that appear in the first few years of life and generally do not worsen over time. These disorders are caused by faulty development of or damage to motor areas in the brain that disrupts the brain's ability to control movement and posture.
Cerebral palsy may be congenital or acquired after birth. Congenital causes include brain injury or malformation due to:
- Infection
- Intrauterine hypoxia (low blood oxygen)
- Problems with the placenta
- Genetic abnormalities
In many instances, the cause of the brain abnormality is unknown.
Several of the causes of cerebral palsy that have been identified through research are preventable or treatable, including:
- Head injury
- Jaundice
- Rh incompatibility
- Rubella (German measles)
Some people with cerebral palsy are also affected by other medical disorders, such as seizures or intellectual disability . But, cerebral palsy does not always cause intellectual disability.
Although its symptoms may change over time, cerebral palsy by definition is not progressive. If a patient shows increased impairment, the problem may be something other than cerebral palsy.
Roughly two out of 1,000 children are affected. Cerebral palsy isn't curable. However, getting the right therapy for your child can make a big difference in reducing the long-term impact of the condition.
Child's Brain
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
More Cerebral Palsy Information
Improved
620 HealthChanged
293 LivesSaved
210 LivesPopular this Week
Connect with Women Like You 26 Women Care About this Condition
You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!
+ Join this Community
