Spastic cerebral palsy

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Spastic cerebral palsy is a type of cerebral palsy characterized by spasticity, a condition in which certain muscles are continuously contracted. This contraction causes stiffness or tightness of the muscles and can interfere with normal movement and speech. Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type of cerebral palsy, accounting for about 80% of all cases.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Spastic cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the brain that affects its ability to control muscle movement. This damage can occur before, during, or shortly after birth. The exact cause of the brain damage is often unknown, but it can be associated with infections during pregnancy, premature birth, lack of oxygen to the brain, and certain genetic conditions.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of spastic cerebral palsy can vary widely from person to person. They may include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

While there is no cure for spastic cerebral palsy, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

  • Physical therapy to improve strength and mobility
  • Occupational therapy to help with daily tasks
  • Speech therapy to improve communication skills
  • Medications to manage symptoms such as muscle stiffness and seizures
  • Surgery to correct deformities or reduce spasticity

See also[edit | edit source]

Spastic cerebral palsy Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD