Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the leading cause of childhood disability. This article reviews common presentations of CP and its possible causes. The management of common problems seen in affected children is discussed in a system-based approach. Many treatment options are available for CP, with varying degrees of evidence and acceptance. As individuals who have CP transition into adulthood, they face unique issues that are not well recognized in the medical community. This article briefly reviews the psychosocial impact of this chronic disease on individuals and their caregivers and family.

Prenatal Stress and Cerebral Palsy: A Nationwide Cohort Study in Denmark

“…Several prenatal and perinatal factors, such as multiple birth, preterm birth, low birth weight, and fetal infection, have been shown to be associated with CP. This suggests that environmental factors operating in early life may play a causal role (1)(2)(3). Recent evidence indicated that prenatal stress alter brain morphology and affect mental health (4 -6).…”

Sexuality and Rehabilitation for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

“…Cerebral palsy is a major cause of childhood disability [6]. Many treatments are available for this disability, with varying degrees of clinical evidence and acceptance [6].…”

“…Many treatments are available for this disability, with varying degrees of clinical evidence and acceptance [6]. Mainly, this disorder is characterized by the inability to normally control motor functions, and it has a high potential to bring an effect on the overall development of a child by promoting the child's ability to explore, speak, learn, and become independent [7].…”

Discriminant validity of social and functional performance protocol to children with cerebral palsy

“…6,7 The motor difficulties present in CP limit the experiences of the affected child as to interacting with people, objects, and events, for manipulating objects, repeat actions, have body control, and develop their body scheme, and may lead to gaps in areas of perception, cognition, language, and socializing. 7,8 The sensory, perceptual, and cognitive disorders associated with motor function can alter their vision, hearing, touch, and their ability to interpret the sensory and/or cognitive information; these can be consequences of primary disorders, assigned to the cerebral palsy or secondary disorders, as a result of the limitations of activities of expressive or receptive communication, and the ability to interact socially. 1,7 As a consequence of all the previously listed aspects, there may be damage to the skills for participation in activities of daily living, favoring a negative impact on the health and welfare of children and their families, highlighting the need for a very detailed assessment, providing a broader perspective on functionality and disability, both in research and in clinical practice.…”