The when and where of cerebral palsy

Salient features of this disorder are as follows:

1. It is known to be originated since the time of pregnancy.
2. This disorder affects primarily the area of brain which helps in movement.
3. Rate of prevalence is very low.
4. It is characterized by increased or reduced muscle tone.
5. It is found mainly in case of premature babies.
6. Birth trauma may lead to cerebral palsy.
7. Mainly involves children below the age of five.
8. Certain illness after birth gives rise to cerebral palsy.
9. Toe walking is an important sign of it.
10. It is frequently associated with convulsions.

Following are some of the accompanying disorders:

1. Deafness
2. Difficulty in paying attention
3. Problem in sight
4. Paralysis

Four types of cerebral palsy that exist among children:

1. Spastic variety
2. Athetoid variety
3. Ataxic variety
4. Mixed variety

Spastic variety:

1. It is the most common variety.
2. It affects around 70% of all children.
3. Contractures are seen in this type of palsy.
4. Weakness of muscles is seen according to the area of nervous damage.
5. Stiffness is seen at affected area.

It may give rise to:

1. Hemiplegia
2. Paraplegia
3. Quadriplegia

Athetoid variety:

1. It is the second most commonly found cerebral palsy.
2. It accounts for 15-20% of cerebral palsy.
3. It is characterized by the presence of involuntary movements.
4. Movements of the affected part are uncontrolled, slow.
5. Manifestations are better during sleep.

Ataxic variety:

1. It accounts for 5-10% of cerebral palsy.
2. It may produce difficulty in walking.
3. Disturbance in balance
4. These children may also find difficulty in performing various activities involving coordination.
5. Weakness and tremors are found frequently.

Mixed variety:

1. It is combination of spastic and athetoid variety.