Cerebral palsy Health Article

Signs and tests

A doctor's examination may reveal:

• Abnormal walk (gait), with a tendency to tuck the arms in toward the sides, make "scissors" movements of the legs, and walk on the toes
• Abnormal slow, writhing movements that get worse with stress and don't occur during sleep
• Delayed development of motor skills (reaching, sitting rolling, crawling, walking)
• Infant reflexes (such as sucking and startle) that continue past the age where they usually disappear
• Joint contractures
• Muscle contractions
• Muscles that do not stretch (spasticity)
• Muscle tremors
• Muscle weakness

The following tests may be performed:

• Blood tests
• CT scan of the head
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
• Hearing screen
• MRI of the head
• Vision testing

Treatment

There is no cure for cerebral palsy. The goal of treatment is to help the person be as independent as possible.

Treatment requires a team approach, including:

• A primary care doctor
• A social worker
• Nurses
• Occupational, physical, and speech therapists
• Other specialists

Treatment is based on the person's symptoms and the need to prevent complications.

Self and home care include:

• Getting enough food and nutrition
• Keeping the home safe
• Performing exercises recommended by the health care providers
• Practicing proper bowel care (stool softeners, fluids, fiber, laxatives, regular bowel habits)
• Protecting the joints from injury

Putting the child in regular schools is recommended, unless physical disabilities or mental development makes this impossible. Special education or schooling may help.

Many adults are able to live in the community, either independently or with different levels of help. In severe cases, the person will need to be placed in an institution.

The following may help with communication and learning:

• Glasses
• Hearing aids
• Muscle and bone braces
• Walking aids
• Wheelchairs

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthopedic help, or other treatments may also be needed.

Medications may include:

• Anticonvulsants to prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures
• Botulinum toxin to help with spasticity and drooling
• Muscle relaxants (baclofen) to reduce tremors and spasticity

Surgery may be needed in some cases to:

• Control gastroesophageal reflux
• Cut certain nerves from the spinal cord to help with pain and spasticity
• Place feeding tubes
• Release joint contractures

Stress and burnout among parents and other caregivers of cerebral palsy patients is common, and should be monitored.

Support Groups

For organizations that provide support and additional information, see cerebral palsy resources.

Expectations (prognosis)

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder. Long-term care may be required. The disorder does not affect expected length of life. The extent of disability varies.