Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is an umbrella term encompassing a group of non-progressive neurological physical disabilities in the development of human movement and posture. CP arises from disturbances in the developing fetal or infant brain; motor disorders are often accompanied by disturbances of sensation, cognition, communication, perception, and/or behavior, and/or by a seizure disorder” (Rosenbaum et al, 2005).

The incidence in developed countries is approximately 2-2.5 per 1000 live births. Incidence has not declined over the last 60 years despite medical advances like electro-fetal monitoring. Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive disorder, however secondary orthopaedic deformities are common, for example hip dislocation and scoliosis of the spine. There is no known cure; medical intervention is limited to the treatment and prevention of complications possible from their disabilities. Allied health is employed to maximise their function and ease of care. Severity varies widely, and cerebral palsy ranks among the most costly congenital conditions to manage.

Cerebral palsy is divided into four major classifications to describe the different movement impairments. These classifications reflect the area of brain damaged. Cerebral palsy can occur during pregnancy (~75%), at birth (~5%) or after birth (~15%). 80% of causes are unknown. For the small number where cause is known this can include infections, malnutrition, and significant head injury in very early childhood.

The four major classifications are:

• Spastic;
• Athetoid;
• Ataxic, and
• Mixed.

In 30% of all cases of cerebral palsy, the spastic form is found along with one of the other types. There are a number of other minor types of cerebral palsy, but these are the most common.

Contents

• 1. General Classification
• 2. Types of Spastic CP
• 3. Presentation (signs and symptoms)
  • 3.1 Bones
• 4. History
• 5. Cause
• 6. Incidence and prevalence
• 7. Prognosis
• 8. Treatment
• 9. Cultural Dimensions
  • 9.1 Usage of the term "spastic"
  • 9.2 Cerebral Palsy as a Learning Disorder
  • 9.3 Pop Culture References
  • 9.4 People with cerebral palsy