Cerebral palsy is a permanent motor condition that causes physical disability and affects bodily movement. This neurological disorder does not worsen over time and is usually detected and diagnosed in early childhood, usually before three years of age, even though most children are born with the condition. Key symptoms include delays in motor development (such as crawling), involuntary movements including seizures, and balance problems. Many patients also have a mental disability due to the brain damage. Note, however, that there are different types and severities of the condition. Some only have slight motor and mental issues while others may need lifelong care.
There is no cure, but there are various treatments and interventions that could improve the lives of people living with the disorder. Physical therapists can target movement-related difficulties while occupational therapists can assist in finding different ways for these patients to live a life as normal and independent as possible. A doctor may prescribe certain medications for extreme cases to control seizures or other spasticity problems. Motor aids such as a wheelchair or leg braces are often utilized as well.
