Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, posture, and muscle coordination, caused by damage to the developing brain, often before birth. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, impacting motor skills, muscle tone, and balance.
There are several types of CP, including spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, and mixed, each characterized by different patterns of muscle control and coordination issues. The severity can range from mild to severe, with some individuals having difficulty walking, speaking, or performing basic tasks, while others may require lifelong care.
CP can be caused by factors such as premature birth, infections during pregnancy, oxygen deprivation during birth, or traumatic brain injury in early life. Symptoms often appear in infancy or preschool years and can include delayed motor milestones, abnormal reflexes, involuntary movements, and poor muscle tone.
While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, treatments such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, medications, and sometimes surgery can help improve quality of life and maximize independence. Early intervention is critical in managing the condition and helping individuals develop their full potential. Research into CP continues to advance, aiming to better understand, prevent, and treat the disorder.