What body systems are affected by cerebral palsy?

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Cerebral Palsy (CP), which affects about 500,000 Americans, refers to a variety of chronic neurological disorders that affect movement, coordination and posture. The majority of people diagnosed with this disorder are born with it. It is, however, not uncommon for the signs to become apparent months, or even years, after a child is born. A condition that originates in the brain, CP primarily affects the muscles, making symptoms appear throughout the body.

Muscle Control

People with CP have a noticeable lack of muscle coordination. They often have a distorted walk. They may drag a leg, walk on their toes or have a scissors-like gait. Some children are unable to dress themselves because they cannot use a zipper or buttons.

Muscle Tone

Muscle tone in CP sufferers is often either too stiff or very floppy. Some people with CP move uncontrollably or involuntarily.

Reflexes

The reflexes of a person with CP appear spastic. Some children with CP have tremors. It's most noticeable when they extend their arm and reach for an object.

Brain

A small number of children with CP develop the condition early in life because of a brain infection such as bacterial meningitis or viral encephalitis. Some children can develop CP from a head trauma obtained in an accident, a fall or from abuse.

Motor Skills

The motor skills of a baby with CP might be delayed. Speech problems are more common in children whose CP is caused by brain damage. As these children age, their speech may remain slurred and difficult to understand.

Source

Cerebral Palsy Information Page

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