Spastic diplegia

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Spastic diplegia, also known as Little's Disease, is a form of cerebral palsy that primarily affects the lower body. This condition is characterized by muscle stiffness (spasticity) and coordination problems.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of spastic diplegia can vary greatly from person to person. However, some common symptoms include:

  • Muscle stiffness in the legs and hips
  • Walking on the toes or with a "scissor gait"
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Delays in reaching motor skill milestones

Causes[edit | edit source]

Spastic diplegia is caused by damage to the brain that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. This damage can be due to a variety of factors, including:

  • Premature birth
  • Lack of oxygen during birth
  • Infections during pregnancy
  • Genetic factors

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of spastic diplegia is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

While there is no cure for spastic diplegia, treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • Medications to manage spasticity
  • Surgery to improve mobility

See also[edit | edit source]

Spastic diplegia Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD, Dr.T