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CEREBRAL PALSIES

Key Features

  • ‘CP’ refers to a group of conditions that affect movement, posture and co-ordination

  • CP is caused by an insult to the brain before, during or soon after birth

  • Timing of the diagnosis depends on the severity, usually diagnosed between 2-4 years

  • There are four main types of CP: Spastic, Dyskinetic, Ataxic and Mixed

  • Depending on the parts of the body affected, CP is classed as Hemiplegia, Diplegia, Quadriplegia. The doctor can explain more regarding these at your consultation

  • Symptoms of CP can be wide and varied. CP could present as: delayed milestones, stiff or floppy limbs, weak limbs, jerky or clumsy movements, tip toe walking

  • A child with CP can also have problems with drooling, swallowing, speaking, vision, hearing, learning, muscles, joints, spine, bowel/bladder function, seizures

  • Treatments are available to help child with CP to be as active and independent as possible

  • Treatments could include: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech

  • Therapy, Medications, Surgery, Aids, Equipment, Access arrangements, Mobility devices etc.

  • Impact CP has on learning, general health, well-being, mobility, relationships, burden/stress on the family, employment, life outcomes, could be modified/minimised or prevented

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Management Options:

  • Provide you with a clear diagnostic report confirming all the medical problems

  • Child may need to be seen more than once before a diagnosis of CP is made

  • Arrange/recommend investigations e.g. MRI Brain scan

  • Liaise with other therapists/professionals as required e.g. PT, OT, Orthotics

  • Offer medications to address problems e.g. drooling, muscle tightness, constipation

  • Offer you information about local and national sources of support and information

  • Give you ideas to promote your child’s activities, comfort and independence

  • Give you information regarding CP and things to monitor

  • You could use medical report e.g. to gain extra support at school, apply for EHCP, request special school placement where required, claim allowances/benefits, apply for respite, request social care input, access leisure activities

  • You will feel empowered to enable your child from this holistic assessment and action plan

  • Present you with an option for follow-up

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