Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect muscle movement and coordination. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, often before or during birth. While CP can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in childhood.
When CP Occurs:
- Before Birth: The majority of CP cases are caused by problems that occur during pregnancy or childbirth.
- During Birth: Complications during labor and delivery can also lead to CP.
- After Birth: In rare cases, CP can be caused by infections, injuries, or other problems that occur after birth.
Diagnosing CP:
CP is usually diagnosed in the first few years of life, but it can sometimes be diagnosed later. Doctors use a variety of tests and assessments to diagnose CP, including:
- Physical examination: This involves observing a child's movements and reflexes.
- Developmental milestones: Doctors track a child's progress in reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting, crawling, and walking.
- Imaging tests: These tests, such as MRI or CT scans, can help to identify brain damage.
It is important to note that CP is not a disease, but rather a group of disorders. There is no cure for CP, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve a person's quality of life.
