How Does Cerebral Palsy Affect the Body?

While not a single condition in and of itself, cerebral palsy is a group of problems that affect a person's body movement and posture. Cerebral palsy is responsible for a high percentage of lasting disabilities in children. The disorder is related to brain injury, difficulties with brain growth or possibly a combination of those two causes.

Causes

• Cerebral palsy can develop before birth or on up to when a child is between two or three years of age. While the exact cause of cerebral palsy can't always be pinpointed, some possible culprits include premature birth, lack of proper in utero nutrition, a serious head injury or infection that could harm the brain or a genetic condition that affect's brain growth and formation.

Movement

• The most common, and most noticeable, symptoms of cerebral palsy are that those suffering from it have trouble controlling their physical movements. In those who have mild cerebral palsy, this may manifest as a limp or other walking difficulty. Others may have little to no control over their arms or legs, making ambulatory movement nearly impossible.

Seizures

• Physical seizures are typically associated only with those who suffer from severe cerebral palsy. The severe forms of this condition often lead to persons developing other disorders due to the damage done to their brains. In addition to seizures, those with severe cerebral palsy may also be mentally challenged.

Posture

• Posture problems are most noticeable in babies born with cerebral palsy. Some babies may have little control over their posture and feel boneless or floppy. Alternatively, these babies may be overly stiff and rigid. Often other physical conditions accompany children born with cerebral palsy, such as an irregularly-shaped spine, small head or a small jaw.

Treatment

• As of August 2009, there is no cure for cerebral palsy. There are a variety of treatments though, and these may make it possible for those suffering from the condition to lead more active lives. Physical therapy is very important, as are medications, and if necessary, special equipment (such as leg braces or walkers) for those who suffer from cerebral palsy.