A Few Notes on Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy actually refers to a number of neurological conditions that affect movement and coordination. This is caused by abnormal development and damage to the areas of the brain that control muscle and motor activity, usually before, during or after birth.

It is usually diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Babies who have cerebral palsy usually have problems with rolling over, sitting, crawling or walking. This disease may also cause muscle stiffness, uncontrolled movements and problems with posture, balance and coordination.

CP is related to other conditions, such as mental retardation, breathing problems, skeletal deformities, digestive problems and hearing and vision problems.

The condition itself ranges quite widely in severity. In many cases, it affects only one area of the body or both legs. However, in nearly 80 percent of cases, it affects the whole body.

A large percentage of people with cerebral palsy have normal or above-average intelligence, but might have difficulties with with communicating. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, however, there are many treatments that can help alleviate cerebral palsy symptoms.