Cerebral Palsy (CP) remains the most common cause of physical disability in childhood, impacting motor function and overall development. Despite major advances in neonatal care over the past four decades, the global incidence of Cerebral Palsy has remained relatively unchanged.
Cerebral Palsy is a neurological condition that results from a non-progressive brain injury or abnormal brain development during the early stages of a child’s growth. It primarily affects movement, muscle tone, and coordination, often leading to challenges with posture, balance, and motor skills. While CP describes the condition, it does not define the individual living with it. Every person with CP has unique abilities, strengths, and experiences beyond the diagnosis.
Cerebral Palsy can be classified into four main categories based on the parts of the body affected:
- Quadriplegia: Involves all four limbs. Muscle control of the face and mouth may also be impaired, often affecting speech and swallowing.
- Diplegia: Affects all four limbs, but the legs are impacted more severely than the arms. Walking and balance are usually the main challenges.
- Hemiplegia: Impacts only one side of the body (right or left), leading to weakness or stiffness in the corresponding arm and leg.
- Paraplegia: Primarily affects both legs, while the arms remain unaffected. This often limits mobility and may require assistive devices.
Important Things to Understand About Cerebral Palsy
1. Every Case is Unique
Cerebral Palsy affects individuals differently. One person may have complete paralysis and require full-time care, while another may only experience mild movement difficulties and live almost independently. The type and timing of brain injury play a major role in these differences.
2. Cerebral Palsy is Not Life-Threatening
In most cases, Cerebral Palsy does not shorten a person’s life expectancy. Except for very severe cases, children diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy can live well into adulthood.
3. Cerebral Palsy Cannot Be Cured
Currently, there is no cure for the brain damage that causes Cerebral Palsy. However, therapies and treatments can significantly reduce its effects and improve daily functioning.
4. Cerebral Palsy is Non-Progressive
The brain injury that causes Cerebral Palsy happens once and does not worsen over time. While the condition itself remains stable, related health issues (such as muscle stiffness or joint problems) may change with age.
5. Cerebral Palsy is Permanent
Unlike other parts of the body, the brain does not fully heal from injury. This means Cerebral Palsy is a lifelong condition, though symptoms can be managed with the right care and support.
6. Cerebral Palsy is Not Contagious
Cerebral Palsy cannot be spread from one person to another. It results from brain injury during development, not from contact. However, factors like accidents, infections, abuse, or medical negligence can increase the risk of brain damage leading to Cerebral Palsy.
7. Cerebral Palsy is Manageable
With therapy, medication, surgery, and assistive technology, people with Cerebral Palsy can gain independence, overcome barriers, and live fulfilling lives. Supportive environments and inclusive communities make a big difference.
8. Cerebral Palsy is Chronic
Cerebral Palsy is a lifelong condition it does not go away. Individuals will live with it throughout their lives, but with proper care, they can thrive and achieve meaningful goals.
Types of Cerebral Palsy
There are four main types of cerebral palsy, each caused by damage to specific areas of the brain and affecting movement in different ways:
1. Spastic Cerebral Palsy
This is the most common type, accounting for about 77% of all cases. Also called hypertonic cerebral palsy, it is characterized by high muscle tone that causes stiff, jerky, or exaggerated movements.
- Cause: Damage to the motor cortex and pyramidal tracts, which control voluntary movement and send signals to the muscles. Because the motor cortex is divided between the right and left sides of the brain, damage on one side affects movement on the opposite side of the body.
- Symptoms:
- Muscle contractures (permanently tightened muscles or joints)
- Difficulty crawling or walking
- Exaggerated reflexes that last longer than normal
- Stiffness in one or more parts of the body
2. Athetoid (Dyskinetic) Cerebral Palsy(CP)
This type is less common, affecting about 2.6% of children with CP. The term “athetosis” refers to involuntary, writhing, or erratic movements. It includes both choreoathetoid and dystonic forms.
- Cause: Damage to the basal ganglia (which regulates voluntary movement and eye control) and/or the cerebellum (which manages balance and coordination).
- Symptoms:
- Fluctuating muscle tone (sometimes too floppy, sometimes too stiff)
- Feeding and swallowing difficulties
- Problems with posture
- Uncontrolled facial, torso, and limb movements
3. Ataxic Cerebral Palsy
This is the least common type, making up around 2.4% of cases. “Ataxia” means lack of coordination. Individuals often have tremors and unsteady, shaky movements.
- Cause: Damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain that coordinates balance and movement.
- Symptoms:
- Poor coordination and balance
- Problems with depth perception
- Shaky, tremor-like movements
- Difficulty with clear speech
- Wide-based walking stance (spreading feet apart for stability)
4. Mixed-Type Cerebral Palsy
Sometimes, a brain injury affects multiple areas, resulting in symptoms of more than one type of cerebral palsy. This is called mixed CP.
- Cause: Damage that is not confined to a single brain region.
- Symptoms: A combination of features from spastic, athetoid, and/or ataxic CP, depending on the parts of the brain affected
Care and Management
The treatment approach for cerebral palsy varies depending on its severity and the individual’s unique needs. A neurologist or pediatric specialist typically evaluates the type of CP, the extent of symptoms, and any related health conditions before recommending a tailored care plan. This personalized approach ensures that treatment not only addresses movement challenges but also supports overall quality of life.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves exercises and activities designed to improve movement and muscle function in people with cerebral palsy. Whether the condition is mild or severe, physical therapy can help strengthen the body and increase mobility.
The main goals of physical therapy include:
- Controlling jerky or stiff movements
- Improving balance, posture, and coordination
- Helping with walking, standing, and sitting
- Loosening tight muscles
- Strengthening weak muscles
Therapists may also use equipment like braces, splints, or walkers to support movement. This type of therapy is beneficial for all types of cerebral palsy.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy helps individuals with cerebral palsy become more independent in everyday life. It focuses on improving fine motor skills the small movements of the hands, wrists, and fingers.
Occupational therapy can help with daily tasks such as:
- Eating and drinking
- Bathing and grooming (like brushing teeth or hair)
- Dressing
- Writing, drawing, and using school tools
- Playing and learning more effectively
Therapists may also suggest adaptive tools (like special cups, utensils, or writing aids) and recommend changes to the home or school environment to make activities easier.
Speech Therapy
Because cerebral palsy can affect the muscles used for speaking and swallowing, some people may struggle with speech, drooling, or communication.
Speech therapy helps by:
- Improving speech clarity and control
- Teaching alternative ways to communicate, such as sign language or communication boards
- Using technology like speech-generating devices or apps
This therapy not only helps with speech but also makes eating and swallowing safer.
Alternative Therapies
Alongside traditional therapies, some families try alternative approaches to support movement and overall development. These include:
- Acupuncture: Using thin needles to relieve tightness in muscles
- Aquatic Therapy: Exercising in water to reduce pressure on muscles and improve movement
- Hippotherapy (Horseback Riding): Strengthens posture, balance, and coordination through riding
- Music Therapy: Playing or listening to music to boost motor skills, focus, and emotional well-being
Medication
Doctors may prescribe medication to manage symptoms of cerebral palsy. Treatment varies depending on the person’s needs, but medications may help with:
- Reducing muscle stiffness or spasms
- Controlling seizures
- Managing pain or discomfort
Surgery (Last Resort)
If other treatments don’t work, surgery may be considered. Operations can help correct bone or muscle problems and improve movement, but doctors usually see it as a final option after other therapies have been tried.
Caring for someone with cerebral palsy requires patience, consistency, and professional support. MyMedicalBank Caregivers are trained to provide home-based assistance that makes daily life easier for both the individual and their family. With MyMedicalBank Caregiver services, families don’t have to face the challenges of cerebral palsy alone. Professional support makes care safer, more effective, and less stressful. You can contact us at WhatsApp/phone call 08027590165.
Office Address; 7 Olufunmi okikiolu street, off Toyin street Ikeja Lagos
Conclusion
Cerebral Palsy remains one of the most common childhood disabilities, but it is also one of the most manageable when detected early and supported with the right care. While the condition cannot be cured, therapies, medications, and assistive technologies continue to transform lives, helping children and adults with Cerebral Palsy reach their full potential.
It’s important to remember that Cerebral Palsy does not define an individual. Behind every diagnosis is a person with unique abilities, dreams, and strengths. With early intervention, consistent medical support, and an inclusive environment, those living with Cerebral Palsy can thrive, pursue education and careers, and lead fulfilling lives.
By spreading awareness and fostering understanding, we can help break the stigma, support families, and ensure that no one living with Cerebral Palsy is left behind.
