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Introduction:

Cerebral palsy (CP) stands as a neurological disorder impacting movement, muscle tone, and posture, particularly prevalent among children. It presents a diverse range of symptoms and severity levels, making comprehension of its causes, symptoms, and management imperative for patients and caregivers alike.

Causes:

CP stems from irregular brain development or damage affecting regions controlling movement, balance, and posture. Such damage can arise before, during, or shortly post-birth. While the precise cause often remains elusive, several contributing factors include:

 

  1. Prenatal influences like infections, maternal health issues, or genetic predispositions.
  2. Perinatal factors encompassing premature birth, low birth weight, and labour or delivery complications.
  3. Postnatal occurrences such as infections, head traumas, or instances of oxygen deprivation to the brain.

Symptoms:

The symptomatology of cerebral palsy spans a broad spectrum, contingent upon the type and severity of the condition. Common manifestations encompass:

 

  1. Muscle rigidity or spasticity
  2. Impaired coordination and equilibrium
  3. Delayed motor skill development
  4. Involuntary tremors or movements
  5. Challenges with fine motor skills like grasping or writing
  6. Speech and language impediments
  7. Cognitive deficits
  8. Seizures

Management:

While cerebral palsy lacks a cure, early intervention and ongoing therapy prove pivotal in enhancing quality of life and symptom management. Key management modalities involve:

 

  1. Physical therapy to bolster muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination.
  2. Occupational therapy to foster independence in daily activities and refine motor skills.
  3. Speech therapy to address communication hurdles and swallowing difficulties.
  4. Pharmacological interventions to alleviate symptoms such as muscle spasticity or seizures.
  5. Utilization of orthotic devices or mobility aids to aid in movement and posture.
  6. Surgical interventions for correcting anatomical anomalies or mitigating severe muscle spasticity.
  7. Provision of psychological support to patients and families for navigating the emotional and social ramifications of living with cerebral palsy.

Conclusion:

Cerebral palsy represents a multifaceted neurological challenge necessitating comprehensive care and assistance. By comprehending its origins, manifestations, and therapeutic strategies, individuals with cerebral palsy can pursue fulfilling lives and realize their full potential with appropriate interventions and support networks. Ongoing research endeavors and advancements in treatment avenues offer promise for further enhancing cerebral palsy management in the future.

Prepared By

Tan Jing Yu & Tneh Xian Hooi

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