Cerebral palsy

What is cerebral palsy (CP)? Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurologic disorders that cause problems with movement , balance , and posture. The first part of the name, cerebral, means having to do with the brain. The second part, palsy, means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP can range from mild to severe. The brain damage and the disabilities it causes are permanent. But treatments can improve the lives of people who have the condition. For example, treatments can help to improve their motor skills and ability to communicate. What are the types of cerebral palsy (CP)? There are different types of CP: Spastic cerebral palsy , which is the most common type. It causes increased muscle tone, stiff muscles, and awkward movements. Sometimes it only affects one part of the body. In other cases, it can affect both arms and legs, the trunk, and the face. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy , which causes problems controlling the movement of the hands, arms, feet, and legs. This can make it hard to sit and walk. Ataxic cerebral palsy , which causes problems with balance and coordination. Mixed cerebral palsy , which means that you have symptoms of more than one type. What causes cerebral palsy (CP)? CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the developing brain. When this development or damage happens before birth, it is called congenital CP. Most CP is congenital, and its causes may include: Gene changes (variants) Brain malformations Infections or fevers in the pregnant parent An injury to the developing baby CP can also happen during or after birth. CP that happens more than 28 days after birth is called acquired CP. Its causes can include: Brain damage in the first few months or years of life Infections, such as meningitis or encephalitis Problems with blood flow to the brain, for example from a stroke or abnormal blood vessels Head injuries , for example from a car accident, a fall , or child abuse In some cases, the cause of congenital or acquired CP is unknown. Who is more likely to develop cerebral palsy (CP)? Certain medical conditions or events that can happen during pregnancy and delivery may increase a baby's risk of congenital cerebral palsy. These may include: Being born too small Being born too early Being born a twin or other multiple birth Being conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technology (ART) Infections Health problems in the pregnant parent, such as thyroid problems and seizures Severe newborn jaundice Having complications during birth Rh incompatibility Exposure to toxic chemicals during pregnancy What are the signs of cerebral palsy (CP)? There are many different types and levels of disability with CP. So the signs can be different in each child. These signs usually appear in the early months of life. They may include: Developmental delays. Your child may be slow to reach developmental milestones such as learning to roll over, sit, crawl, or walk. Abnormal muscle tone. Your child…