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Contents
Definition of Cerebral Palsy
Incidence
Characteristics
Developmental, Educational, and Employment
Implications
Resources
Organizations
Forums
Learning and Other Disabilities
Related Articles
A Parent's Guide to Accessing Programs for
Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers with Disabilities
A Guide to Children's Literature and
Disability
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Definition of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by damage to the brain,
usually occurring before, during or shortly following birth.
"Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" to a disorder of
movement or posture. It is neither progressive nor communicable.
It is also not "curable" in the accepted sense, although
education, therapy and applied technology can help persons with
cerebral palsy lead productive lives. It is not a disease and
should never be referred to as such. It can range from mild to
severe.
The causes of cerebral palsy include illness during
pregnancy, premature delivery, or lack of oxygen supply to the
baby; or it may occur early in life as a result of an accident,
lead poisoning, viral infection, child abuse, or other factors.
Chief among the causes is an insufficient amount of oxygen or
poor flow of blood reaching the fetal or newborn brain. This can
be caused by premature separation of the placenta, an awkward
birth position, labor that goes on too long or is too abrupt, or
interference with the umbilical cord. Other causes may be
associated with premature birth, RH or A-B-O blood type
incompatibility between parents, infection of the mother with
German measles or other viral diseases in early pregnancy, and
microorganisms that attack the newborn's central nervous system.
Lack of good prenatal care may also be a factor. A less common
type is acquired cerebral palsy: head injury is the most frequent
cause, usually the result of motor vehicle accidents, falls, or
child abuse.
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Incidence
Between 500,000 - 700,000 Americans have some degree of
cerebral palsy. About 3,000 babies are born with the disorder
each year, and another 500 or so acquire it in the early years of
life.
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Characteristics
There are three main types of cerebral palsy: spastic --
stiff and difficult movement; athetoid -- involuntary and
uncontrolled movement; and ataxic -- disturbed sense of balance
and depth perception. There may be a combination of these types
for any one individual. Other types do occur, although
infrequently.
Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to fully
control motor function. Depending on which part of the brain has
been damaged and the degree of involvement of the central nervous
system, one or more of the following may occur: spasms; tonal
problems; involuntary movement; disturbance in gait and mobility;
seizures; abnormal sensation and perception; impairment of sight,
hearing or speech; and mental retardation.
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Developmental, Educational, and Employment Implications
Early identification of cerebral palsy can lessen
developmental problems and lead to appropriate intervention when
it helps the most. Early intervention programs are
family-centered in which professionals and families work together
with the child in specific activities. Educators, physical and
occupational therapists, social workers, speech- language
pathologists, psychologists and physicians can assist families by
providing information and education.
Activities for children with cerebral palsy may include:
- speech and language therapy;
- occupational therapy;
- physical therapy;
- medical intervention;
- family support services;
- early education; and
- assistive technology.
As a child gets older and begins formal schooling, the
intensity of services will vary from individual to individual.
Persons with cerebral palsy are usually able to attain a
substantial degree of independence but, in some cases, may need
considerable assistance. Services for the school age child may
include continuing therapy, regular or special education,
counseling, technical support, community integration
opportunities, recreation and possible personal attendants. A
key factor seems to be a supportive family. People extensively
affected by cerebral palsy can still be highly functional and
independent. The HEATH Resource Center, the clearinghouse on
postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities, states
that a significant number of students with cerebral palsy are
enrolled in colleges and universities.
Important advances have taken place in the last 15 years
which have had a great effect on the long-term well-being of
children born with cerebral palsy. Advanced technology,
including computers and engineering devices, has been applied to
the needs of persons with cerebral palsy. Technological
innovations have been developed in the areas of speech and
communication, self-care, and adapting living arrangements and
work sites. The future may bring even more significant
applications.
Another important development has been the increased ability
of persons with disabilities, including those who have cerebral
palsy and other severe disabilities, to live independently in the
community. Adults with cerebral palsy are now living, with or
without assistance, in their own apartments or townhouses.
Independent Living Centers have also proven to be important
resources for persons with disabilities.
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