Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development -- before, during or shortly after birth, or during infancy. "Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" refers to paralysis. It describes the lack of muscle control that is often the most visible symptom. Brain damage due to cerebral palsy is non-progressive, is not hereditary or communicable. However, secondary conditions, such as tight muscles, may get worse as a child grows and develops.

Symptoms
Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to fully control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination. Depending on where damage in the brain occurred, people with cerebral palsy may have: muscle tightness, involuntary movement, disturbances in gait and mobility, abnormal sensation and perception, impairment of sight, hearing or speech, seizures and/or mental retardation.

Treatment
Cerebral palsy cannot be cured, but, in many cases, the symptoms can be managed with medication, assistive technology, occupational and physical therapy and surgery.