Cerebral paralysis or cerebral palsy (CP) is a health condition which affects the ability of the body to move. Also referred to as brain paralysis, cerebral paralysis occurs when there is a problem with the brain. Commonly diagnosed at birth or in the early stages of life, this problem is caused when the brain is damaged during its development. Injury to the brain may also occur during the birthing process or in the early years of life. The physical impairments are the result of destruction to the areas of the brain which manage muscles.
Difficulty controlling muscles and changes in muscle tone are the most common indicators of cerebral paralysis. Problems with overall coordination, balance and posture are common. The inability to regulate movement may also lead to difficulties with bowel and bladder control, and eating or digestion problems. Symptoms may also affect hearing, vision, speech and the ability to learn.
Symptoms of cerebral paralysis become evident as the nervous system begins to mature. The nerves carry signals from the brain to the muscles which initiate movement. When cerebral palsy is present, delays in normal movement patterns, such as head control and rolling ability, become evident. Depending on the extent of brain damage, movement difficulties can range from minor to profound.
Muscle problems can create atypical muscle tone in the form of flaccidity or spasticity. Flaccidity is when there is a overall weakness of muscle tone. Spasticity is a condition in which muscle tone is exaggerated. Spastic cerebral paralysis, the most common form of cerebral palsy results in muscle movements which are difficult and erratic or jerky in nature. This form of movement impairment can occur in all or parts of the body.
When movement disturbances affect one side of the body exclusively a patient is said to be suffering from hemiplegia. Diplegia impacts the lower extremities or legs only. Quadriplegic cerebral paralysis occurs when there is involvement of the entire body. Motion of the muscles may also be difficult or impossible to control.
Dyskinetic or extrapyramidal cerebral paralysis is a form of muscle impairment that creates coordination difficulties. Athetoid, a form of dyskinetic CP, results in slow, uncontrolled writhing motions. Ataxic forms present with difficulty with perception, balance and coordination. This in turn may make walking difficult and unsteady. It may also result in trouble with fine motor skills such as writing or using utensils.
Treatment of cerebral paralysis focuses on the management of symptoms through various forms of therapy. This includes maintaining muscle flexibility and working on controlling movements. Treatment protocols are individualized as symptoms can range widely. It is necessary for therapy to be ongoing as there is no cure of cerebral palsy.