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Facts on Cerebral Palsy
One of the most common handicapping conditions in children during childhood is cerebral palsy. This is due to the fact that damage has occurred to the motor functions areas central nervous system. This can happen either before during or after birth. Causes of Cerebral PalsyThere are many causes of cerebral palsy. One probable, (I love how they say that there are many causes of cerebral palsy, and yet the first cause starts with probable,) cause is the absence of sufficient oxygen in the brain tissue (anoxia). There are studies that have shown that one third of the babies born with cerebral palsy weighed in under five pounds. The next believed cause of cerebral palsy in an injury occurring to the brain during labor and delivery. Infections are also another cause, (for example, bacterial meningitis) and hemorrhage, and yet often times there is no obvious explanation. Outlook for a Child with Cerebral PalsyA child's outlook on life depends largely on whether the child also has intellectual handicaps. Even when a child's motor skills are so severe that he has to be in a wheelchair, the adjustment will be easier if the child is capable of going to school. This is where the family comes into the picture, if the family has a possitive attitude about the situation, can help the child deveiop a possitive image of him or herself. This is key to seeing how the child witll handle everyday life. If the family upbringing is a healthy one they will have a better chance to get ahead in life. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but however in some special cases surgery is helpful in reducing spasticity. Treatment of the disease involves early stretching exercises to prevent contractures and keep the muscle loose. The use of walkers and wheelchairs are used to improve the child's mobility, and also some educational methods to help overcome some of the child's motor and learning disabilities if any exist. |
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