What is Ataxic Cerebral Palsy?

Around five to ten percent of all cases of cerebral palsy are ataxic cerebral palsy. This is when the cerebellum is damaged--a part of the brain that normally helps with balance and coordination. If the cerebellum is damaged, poor muscle tone, hypotonia, difficulty maintaining balance and more can result.

Children with ataxic cerebral palsy often have a wide-based, unsteady gait. These children might also have tremors that occur when attempting voluntary movements--these are called intention tremors. Movements such as writing are typically effected by this condition. Another symptom that helps to identify ataxic cerebral palsy is nystagmus, a condition that is recognized by involuntary and rapid eye movement. Children with ataxic cerebral palsy sometimes suffer from mental defects and seizures.

A doctor will diagnose a child with cerebral palsy by conducting several physical examinations as well as MRIs and CT scans. These will help the physician determine whether or not the brain is developing properly.

Ataxic cerebral palsy will become progressively worse as time goes on. Some people believe that a rare therapy called chronic cereballa stimulation might improve the condition. So far, results have been inconclusive.

Sadly, there is no cure for ataxic cerebral palsy. The condition can be treated, however. And it is important to understand that sometimes ataxic cerebral palsy may be the result of doctor's error. If this is the case, it is a good idea to find a cerebral palsy lawyer. This attorney will be able to perform an investigation to gather the information that surrounds the incident to see if a case is viable.

For more information about cerebral palsy, visit http://www.ucp.org/

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