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Cerebral Palsy

Movement and posture disorder due to brain damage developing prenatally or in the early period.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a term covering permanent movement and posture disorders due to damage to the developing brain during the prenatal period, during birth, or in early childhood. The brain damage is non-progressive; however, the clinical picture may change over time.

CP is divided into different types such as spastic, dyskinetic, and ataxic. The spastic type is the most common and presents with increased muscle tone. According to the affected body region, it is classified as hemiplegia, diplegia, or quadriplegia.

Conditions accompanying CP may include speech difficulties, epilepsy, visual-hearing problems, feeding difficulties, and cognitive differences. Early and intensive rehabilitation significantly improves quality of life.

Symptoms

Muscle stiffness or excessive looseness
Balance and coordination disorder
Difficulty walking or abnormal gait pattern
Delay in fine motor skills
Speech and swallowing difficulty
Epileptic seizures

Risk Factors

Premature birth (prematurity) and low birth weight
Oxygen deficiency during birth (asphyxia)
Neonatal meningitis or encephalitis
Multiple pregnancy
Maternal infections (toxoplasmosis, CMV)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If the baby cannot meet motor developmental milestones (sitting, crawling, walking) at the expected time
  • If marked asymmetry or abnormal stiffness is noticed in muscle tone
  • If the first seizure has occurred
  • If feeding and swallowing difficulties have reached serious levels

Treatment Methods

01
Improving motor function with physiotherapy and occupational therapy
02
Botulinum toxin injections (spasticity management)
03
Oral spasticity drugs (baclofen, tizanidine)
04
Orthoses and assistive devices
05
Speech and language therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.