World Cerebral Palsy Day has been celebrated on October 6 since 2012. Children often have cerebral palsy, which affects mobility, muscular control, and coordination. Damage to the developing brain before, during, or early in life causes it. Despite being a physical impairment, it does not influence intelligence or cognition. Cerebral palsy may be caused by brain injury before, during, or immediately after childbirth due to infections or lack of oxygen to the baby’s brain. Other problems like premature birth or low birth weight increase cerebral palsy risk. Certain gene mutations may increase this condition’s risk. Non-genetic factors impact most cases, not genetics. On World Cerebral Palsy Day 2023, Dr. Pankaj Agarwal, Senior Consultant Neurologist and Head of the Department of Neurology, Global Hospitals Parel Mumbai, explained why understanding the diverse causes of cerebral palsy is crucial for timely diagnosis and preventive measures to improve children’s quality of life.
Symptoms include ataxia, muscular coordination issues. This can produce clumsiness, unsteadiness, and uneven gait. Cerebral palsy can cause muscle stiffness, making mobility difficult. Spasticity—limb muscle tone or tightness that makes smooth motions difficult—is another sign. Involuntary muscular contractions or spasms can make jobs harder. Slurred voice or trouble speaking owing to muscular control issues are also prevalent. Remember that everyone’s experience is different, depending on age of onset and early brain injury.
MRI or CT scans, genetic testing, and metabolic screening can rule out other illnesses with similar symptoms to diagnose brain structure abnormalities and damage.
Assistive technology like keyboards, smartphone apps, and computer-based communication systems help people with restricted physical ability live more independently. Robotic therapy also improves motor abilities and muscle strength. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential to cerebral palsy treatment.
Conclusion:-
World Cerebral Palsy Day unites cerebral palsy patients, their families, supporters, and organizations worldwide. Brain damage before, during, or early life causes cerebral palsy, a common neurological disorder that affects mobility, muscular control, and coordination in children. It does not influence intelligence or cognition. Cerebral palsy may be caused by brain damage by infections or lack of oxygen, premature birth or low birth weight, and gene abnormalities. Most cases are non-hereditary and involve non-genetic causes.
Ataxia, muscle rigidity, spasticity, speech problems, and age of onset are cerebral palsy symptoms. Diagnostic tests for brain structure anomalies and injuries include MRI, CT, genetic, and metabolic screening. Rehabilitation, robotic therapy, physical therapy, and assistive technology are treatment alternatives.
Knowing cerebral palsy’s many causes is essential for early diagnosis and prevention to enhance children’s lives. Assistive technologies, robotic therapy, and physical therapy help cerebral palsy patients live independently and enhance their daily lives.
