Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that has no cure, but supportive treatments, medications, and surgery can help many people improve their motor skills and their ability to communicate with the world. The severity of cerebral palsy may vary, but it does not get worse over time. It may become clearer as the child grows and develops. With diagnosis and treatment, children can learn to manage their condition.
Cerebral palsy is not a progressive disease, but the co-occurring or associated conditions that many people with cerebral palsy have may worsen. Associated conditions may include epilepsy, osteoarthritis, hearing and vision loss, incontinence, malnutrition, dental problems, and speech and language disorders. The right treatments can control these conditions and prevent them from getting worse. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects normal motor function.
It is caused by damage to the developing brain before birth or in infancy. Medications can also be used to treat secondary disorders caused by cerebral palsy, such as incontinence, acid reflux, behavioral disorders, and more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 345 children in the United States has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. People diagnosed with cerebral palsy have similar life expectancies to people who don't have this condition.
The American Academy of Pediatrics published a report that was based on data from more than 1,300 studies of people with cerebral palsy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 50 to 60 percent of children with cerebral palsy can walk independently. While parents and caregivers may be the first to notice signs of cerebral palsy in infants, doctors are often hesitant to make an immediate diagnosis until other symptoms can be seen as the child grows. Medications can be used to treat some symptoms of cerebral palsy, such as involuntary movements, seizures, and spasticity.
Mobility aids aim to help children with cerebral palsy to move freely and can greatly improve their quality of life and independence. Getting diagnosed and starting treatment early can help improve the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy in a timely manner and improve your child's overall quality of life. Actively treating the symptoms of cerebral palsy is the best way to ensure the best quality of life for a child as they transition to adulthood.
