Cerebral palsy is a neuromuscular disorder that makes it hard for a child to control movement. Learning that your child has a chronic condition isn't easy, and taking care of a child who has one can be hard. But a comprehensive treatment program can support people with cerebral palsy in maximizing their abilities and physical strength as well as preventing complications and improving their quality of life.
Overview
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of motor problems and physical disorders that result from a brain injury or abnormal brain development. It may occur during fetal growth, at the time of birth or in the first two or three years of a child's life. However, in many cases, the exact cause is not known.
CP can affect the muscles in a single part or side of the body or sometimes the entire body. Uncontrolled reflex movements and muscle tightness (spasticity) occur with varying severity. Physical problems of CP vary. Some people walk with a limp. Other people are unable to control the movement of their arms, legs, or muscles of the mouth and tongue.
People with severe forms of CP are more likely to have other problems, such as seizures or intellectual disability. The brain injury that causes CP does not get worse over time, but symptoms may start, change, or become more severe as a child grows. To find out more about how the disease affects your child, your doctor may do more tests.
Treatment
Even though cerebral palsy (CP) can't be cured, you and your child can do things to manage their symptoms and prevent problems, making the most of your child's abilities.
Physical therapy is one of the most important treatments. This can help your child learn to navigate their environment as safely as possible. It often continues throughout your child's life and may help prevent the need for surgery.
Medications to manage other symptoms, surgery, and special adaptive equipment such as a walker can also help. Ongoing treatment for CP focuses on continuing and adjusting current treatments and adding new treatments as needed.
You may hear about a wide range of controversial therapies for CP, such as electrical stimulation and special diets. Be sure to talk to your child's doctor about any treatment you are considering for them. Some of these treatments can cause harm.
Managing care
Here are some tips to help parents and family members manage the care of a child with CP:
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Learn about the condition. Being informed can help you understand how to best support your child. Local or national CP organizations can provide assistance, especially in addressing the impact of daily emotional and lifestyle issues. Talk with your doctor for suggestions.
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Learn about your child's educational rights. Laws in the United States give children with special needs access to free public school services and some free treatments. These educational rights also include protection of the parents' rights to be fully informed about or disagree with educational decisions concerning their child. Contact your state and local education departments for specific information about these accommodations. Also, vocational training may benefit some teens and young adults.
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Work with teachers and school officials. Work with your child's teachers, school administrators, special learning consultants, and school boards to develop the best educational plan for your child. A cooperative team approach helps your child realize their potential.
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Provide emotional support. The needs of a child with CP change over time. As children grow and become more aware of their physical limitations, they need to be able to talk about their feelings and how they are treated. It is sometimes easier for them to talk with someone who isn't a family member. Ask your doctor about whether counseling would benefit your child. Also, include your child when making decisions about health care.
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Take care of yourself. Get proper rest, eat well, exercise and learn ways to cope with the challenges of raising a child with CP. It may help to join a support group or talk with other parents who have a child with special needs, so you don't feel alone. You may also want to try counseling. You will be better equipped to help your child when you have physical energy and emotional strength.
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Help each other. The entire family is affected when one member has CP. Helping family members cope with this situation is important, especially for siblings. You can help prevent other children from having unrealistic fears and concerns, feeling left out or becoming overwhelmed.
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Focus on your child's strengths. You, your family, and your friends can help your child reach their highest potential. Build your child's self-esteem by helping them learn to do things independently.
If you have questions or want to learn more about Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation services at Parkview Health, visit us here.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
