What is cerebral palsy? Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development; before, during or shortly following birth; or during infancy. "Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" to muscle weakness; poor control. Cerebral palsy itself is not progressive (i.e., it does not get worse); however, secondary conditions can develop which may get better over time, get worse, or remain the same. Cerebral palsy is not communicable. It is not a disease and should never be referred to a s such. Although cerebral palsy is not "curable" in the accepted sense, training and therapy can help improve function. What are the effects? Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to fully control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination. Depending on which areas of the brain have been damaged, one or more of the following may occur: muscle tightness or spasm; involuntary movement; disturbance in gait and mobility; abnormal sensation and perception; impairment of sight, hearing or speech; seizures; and mental retardation. Because of these, other problems may arise, such as difficulties in feeding, bladder and bowel control, problems with breathing because of postural difficulties, skin disorders because of pressure sores, and learning disabilities. | |
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