Growth Patterns of Children With Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that first shows signs in early childhood; the condition does not decline over time, but levels off, having a permanent effect on muscle coordination and body movement. Cerebral palsy is caused by irregularities in brain areas that provide control over muscle movements, resulting in poor coordination, stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes. Children with cerebral palsy typically exhibit abnormal growth patterns.

Johns Hopkins Study

• A 1996 study at Johns Hopkins Hospital revealed that children with CP usually fall behind in weight and stature by 5 percent to 10 percent.

Overall Health

• Overall health and social participation has a significant effect on the growth patterns of children with CP, though more research is needed in this area.

Malnutrition

• Malnutrition, due to poor feeding skills and motor control, is a main cause of poor growth in children with CP (The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pediatrics, 1997).

Disease Severity

• The severity of CP, combined with other conditions, may also contribute to poor growth patterns in children.

Bone Stress

• The manner of movement associated with CP often places unusual stress on developing bones, which can contribute to stunted growth.

Growth Hormone Deficiency

• Although there have been no thorough growth hormone (GH) deficiency studies in children with CP, some reports indicate it may be a factor in CP growth patterns.