Cerebral Palsy Vs. Erb's Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) and Erb's palsy are both disorders that effect body movement and develop from birth complications. Although the two disorders have significant similarities, cerebral palsy and Erb's palsy also have many distinct differences.

Cerebral Palsy

• Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects body movement and muscle coordination. Birth complications such as a lack of oxygen during birth can result in cerebral palsy. Other causes of CP are fetal damage during pregnancy and suffering a traumatic injury within the first five years of life.

Erb's Palsy

• Erb's palsy results from injury to the nerves above the shoulder that occurs during birth. Pulling of the head or shoulders to the side during birth or giving birth to a baby larger than normal are risk factors of Erb's palsy.

Prognosis

• Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive disorder that varies in severity. Someone with CP may be able to assimilate into society with only a slight amount of awkwardness, while another person with CP may require lifelong care. Erb's palsy usually heals after six months.

Symptoms

• Early symptoms of cerebral palsy include delay in gross motor skills, such as crawling and walking. Other symptoms depend on the severity of each case, but common symptoms are abnormally tight muscles and awkward gait (manner in which one walks). The early symptoms of Erb's palsy are lack of movement and poor grip in the affected arm.

Treatment

• Treatment for cerebral palsy focuses on muscle strengthening and becoming independent. CP treatment might include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and foot orthotics. In cases where Erb's palsy does not heal after six months, nerve surgery can be done to help the person improve his physical abilities.