Described as the most complex structure in the universe, the brain serves as the mainframe controlling just about everything in our lives.
But as powerful as the brain is, it is especially sensitive during the early stages of development. If one area is damaged, it will hinder the normal activities the brain can perform.
Defining Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) — meaning “brain paralysis” — is an umbrella term given to a group of neurological disorders that permanently affect a person’s movement, balance and posture.
CP results from damage or abnormalities that occur before birth or during the first years of life, and it is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting one in 400 children, according to McMaster University's CanChild research centre.
The exact cause of CP is difficult to determine as there is no single cause.
Some possible complications include:
Most children are diagnosed within the first two years of life, but if the symptoms are mild, it can go unnoticed until the age of four or five.
Hypoxia (low oxygen
levels) at birth
Head injury
Maternal infections such as rubella
Brain bleeding
Fetal infection
Severe jaundice caused by blood incompatibility between the mother and fetus
As a condition that affects the brain and nervous system, CP is challenging to comprehend. However, CP can be broken down into four different types depending on what part of the brain is affected.
TYPES OF
CEREBRAL PALSY
Other Symptoms
CP also comes with secondary or co-occurring conditions. For instance, four in 10 children with CP have epilepsy and one in 10 have autism spectrum disorder.
Other conditions include:
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Oral motor impairment (feeding, swallowing and drooling)
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Respiratory issues
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Speech impairment
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Learning challenges
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Visual impairment
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Hearing loss and sensory issues
CP is a lifelong disorder, and while there is no cure for CP, treatments and therapies can make a huge difference.