Cerebral Palsy Fall 2024 w

What is the definition of Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy is a complex and heterogeneous condition that impacts motor functions and may often have secondary dysfunctions affecting sensory, cognition, speech, and seizures, resulting from a non-progressive, permanent brain-based condition.

What are the key learning objectives regarding Cerebral Palsy?

Understand the pathology and etiology, describe the signs and symptoms, discuss impacts on occupational performance, and consider challenges of aging with a disability.

What is the most common motor disability in childhood?

Cerebral Palsy is the most common motor disability, occurring globally at a prevalence of 1 to 4 per 1,000 live births.

Which groups have a higher prevalence of Cerebral Palsy?

Higher prevalence is noted among boys, Non-Hispanic Black children, children born preterm or with low birthweight, and twins, especially triplets.

What prenatal factors can lead to Cerebral Palsy?

Factors include premature birth, maternal infections, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and fetal stroke.

What are the classifications of Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy can be classified by tone abnormality (e.g., spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic) and limb involvement (e.g., hemiplegia, diplegia, quadriplegia).

What characterizes spastic Cerebral Palsy?

Spastic Cerebral Palsy is characterized by stiff and tight muscles, with involuntary movements primarily arising from damage to the motor cortex.

What are common medical management strategies for Cerebral Palsy?

Common management strategies include medications to decrease spasticity, Botox injections, surgical interventions, and physical, occupational, and speech therapies.

What impact does aging have on individuals with Cerebral Palsy?

Aging with Cerebral Palsy can result in weaker muscles, increased fall risks, wear on joints, and difficulties in health management tasks.

What are associated health issues and functional challenges of Cerebral Palsy?

Associated health issues include visual and hearing impairments, gastrointestinal difficulties, seizures, and cognitive impairments.