Children With Cerebral Palsy May Show Signs Of Developmental Delay

Children with cerebral palsy usually show signs of the condition at an early age, before 3 years old.  Children with cerebral palsy may be slow to reach developmental milestones such as being able to sit up or smile.  Symptoms can be mild and barely noticeable to extreme and severe.  The causes are many and complex resulting in damage to the motor areas of the brain either in pregnancy or in the early years of life.
 
Children with cerebral palsy can undergo a series of tests to diagnose the condition. Developing a hand preference early before the age of 12 months is one sign of cerebal palsy.  Doctors will test motor skills and reflexes.  A CT scan or MRI may be required. There is no standard treatment for spastic CP.  Physiotherapy can help children enjoy a full life.
 
Parents of children with cerebral palsy can get info from a foundation such as UCP.  This is a large US health charity that provides services to over 30,000 people with disabilities nationwide.  The United Cerebral Palsy association was founded in the 1940s when there was a general lack of understanding about cerebal palsey.  Today it is a major advocate for the equal rights of adults and children with any type of disability.