What Is Ataxic CP?

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Most people have heard of cerebral palsy and may have at least a brief understanding of the condition, but few know the classifications of CP. One of the classifications is called ataxic cerebral palsy. This form of the condition results from damage to the cerebellum portion of the brain, which is responsible for balance and coordination, according to CerebralPalsySource.com, and occurs in about 5 to 10 percent of cerebral palsy cases. People who fall into this grouping experience problems with depth perception and balance. They also usually have poor muscle tone, trembling hands and staggering movement.

Ataxic CP tends to affect the truck and all of the limbs. People with this form of the condition will often walk with their feet spaced widely apart in an attempt to compensate for their feelings of unbalance. According to About-Cerebral-Palsy.org, also characteristic of those with ataxic CP is the kind of shaking more commonly seen in the elderly, particularly when they are trying to grasp small objects. As time goes on, people affected by this condition can develop issues with malnutrition because of difficulties feeding themselves and with coordinating chewing and swallowing. Also, muscle atrophy may become a problem.

If you have a child affected by cerebral palsy that you believe was the result of a birth injury or improper prenatal care, you should speak with an experienced attorney who can advise you of your options. We are very knowledgeable in birth injury cases and would be happy to assess your case free of charge.