1. What is cerebral palsy?
1.1 Definition of cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is a syndrome of movement and posture disorders caused by abnormal or damaged central nervous system development. It does not improve over time, but treatment and rehabilitation can improve the patient\’s quality of life.
1.2 Classification of cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy can be divided into four types based on the type and severity of the movement disorder: spastic, tonic, mixed, and indeterminate.
2. Early symptoms of cerebral palsy in babies
2.1 Delayed motor development
Under normal circumstances, babies begin to learn how to handle their heads, bodies, and limbs within a few months of birth. But if your baby has motor delays, such as an inability to lift his head, sit up, or crawl on time, this may be an early sign of cerebral palsy.
2.2 Abnormal muscle tone
Muscle tone refers to the maintenance of a certain degree of tension after muscle contraction. If your baby has high or low muscle tone, such as stiffness, twitching, or tremors in the arms or legs, this may be an early sign of cerebral palsy.
2.3 Asymmetrical movement
If your baby develops asymmetry in movement, such as using only one arm or leg, or crawling on only one side of the body, this may also be an early sign of cerebral palsy.
2.4 Vision and hearing problems
Some babies develop visual and hearing problems after birth. If your baby is unable to look at objects, blink or follow moving objects, or does not respond to sounds, this may also be an early sign of cerebral palsy.
3. How to prevent cerebral palsy?
3.1 Prenatal care
Pregnant women need to receive regular prenatal check-ups and follow the doctor’s recommendations for nutritional supplements and exercise. In addition, pregnant women should try to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and exposure to toxic substances.
3.2 Postnatal care
Newborns need to receive timely postpartum examinations and receive vaccinations on time. Parents should also pay attention to providing adequate nutrition and paying attention to their children\’s motor development.
4. How to treat cerebral palsy?
4.1 Physical therapy
Physical therapy is an important part of cerebral palsy rehabilitation and can help patients improve their muscles and balance.
4.2 Drug treatment
Medication can help reduce some symptoms of cerebral palsy, such as twitching and muscle stiffness.
4.3 Surgical treatment
In some cases, surgery may be the best option to improve the quality of life of people with cerebral palsy. , surgery can help correct bone deformities or relieve muscle tension.
5. The impact of cerebral palsy on babies
5.1 Movement and Postural Disorders
Cerebral palsy can cause movement and posture difficulties in babies, which may affect their daily life and self-care.ability.
5.2 Restricted intellectual development
Although cerebral palsy itself does not cause intellectual disability, some patients may have limited intellectual development due to motor impairments and other factors.
5.3 Mental health issues
People with cerebral palsy may face mental health issues such as low self-esteem and social difficulties due to differences compared to their peers.
6. Conclusion
Cerebral palsy is a severe movement and posture disorder syndrome. Early symptoms of cerebral palsy in babies include delayed motor development, abnormal muscle tone, asymmetric movements and visual and hearing problems. Preventing cerebral palsy starts with prenatal care, and treatments include physical therapy, medication, and surgery. Despite the impact cerebral palsy can have on your baby\’s life, with active rehabilitation and support, they can still live happy and meaningful lives.
