Cerebral palsy is a condition that impacts how muscles move, coordinate, and maintain tone. This occurs when the brain fails to send the right signals to muscles for smooth and coordinated movement. It can also affect other body functions like breathing and bladder control.
There are various types of cerebral palsy, and individuals may experience one or more types. The severity of cerebral palsy can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of brain damage. It might affect a small brain area, like the one controlling walking, or larger areas that manage walking, talking, and understanding speech.
If the brain area responsible for speech is affected, a person with cerebral palsy might have trouble speaking or understanding speech. While some individuals with cerebral palsy may face behavioral or learning challenges, others do not. Some may also experience hearing loss, epilepsy, seizures, or other medical issues.
Cerebral palsy itself doesn’t worsen over time, but its effects on the body might change as a person grows. For instance, some teenagers might develop dislocated hips or scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves.
The exact cause of cerebral palsy isn’t always clear. It can happen when a child’s brain is still developing, either before birth or in early infancy. Possible causes include infections, medical issues during pregnancy, strokes before or after birth, or complications during delivery.
Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight have a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy. Those who don’t get enough oxygen during or right after birth, or who need a ventilator for several days post-birth, are also at increased risk.
Managing cerebral palsy varies because it affects everyone differently. Some teens might only have minor movement issues, while others may need crutches or wheelchairs. A personalized treatment plan is created by doctors, parents, teachers, therapists, and the individual with cerebral palsy.
Experts can assist teens with cerebral palsy in several ways. Some use medication to relax muscles or control seizures, while others might need surgery to increase flexibility in their arms and legs or to correct scoliosis and dislocated hips. Leg braces can also make walking easier.
A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus can strengthen bones. During puberty, rapid growth can lead to weight gain and clumsiness, making movement more challenging for those with cerebral palsy. As bones grow, muscles might tighten, limiting movement.
If you have cerebral palsy, staying involved in your care is important. Keep up with all your appointments, including physical therapy and other treatments. Your medical team will monitor your progress and adjust your therapy as needed.
If you have a friend with cerebral palsy and want to help, treat them like anyone else. They might need extra help reaching for something, but there’s no need to make a big deal out of it. If they take longer to complete tasks or have trouble understanding, be patient and supportive.
Talk to your friend about their experience living with cerebral palsy. Everyone wants to feel accepted and included. Disabilities like being in a wheelchair can make someone feel self-conscious or left out, so be open-minded and include them in your activities.
