"Cerebral palsy" is a major disorder covering group of disorders affecting body movement, balance, and posture. It is best described in simple a term which implies "cerebral paralysis". This disorder is caused by abnormal/unusual development or major damage in parts of the brain that: "Control muscle tone and motor activity (movement)". Cerebral palsy also causes reflex movements that a person can't control and muscle tightness that greatly affects the body. This problem is severe. Mental retardation, Seizures, vision and hearing problems can occur. This disorder occurs mostly during childbirth or due to any major head injury in childhood. Symptoms: People with this disorder usually face problems related to their physical activity such as: "Difficulty in maintaining posture and body movements". These problems vary in their intensity from patient to patient. Other people have little or no control over their arms and legs or other parts of the body, such as the mouth and tongue, which can cause problems with eating and speaking. People with severe forms of cerebral palsy have other problems, such as seizures or mental retardation. Causes: Cerebral palsy is caused by a brain injury or problem that occurs during pregnancy, birth. Cerebral palsy can be caused by: o Problems from being born too early (premature birth). o Not getting enough blood, oxygen, or other nutrients before or during birth. o A serious head injury. o A serious infection that can affect the brain, such as meningitis. o Some problems pass from parent to child (genetic conditions) that affects brain development. In many cases, the exact cause of cerebral palsy is not known. Treatment: Treatment measures include: Physical therapy: - This is usually an important part of ongoing treatment and can help the child become as mobile as possible (i.e., movements are restored back). If a child has surgery, intense physical therapy may be needed for 6 months or more. Monitoring of any medicines being taken, to help control symptoms and prevent complications. Medications may include: Antispasmodics (oral or injectable) to help relax muscles and reduce spasms. E.g.: Diazepam, Dantrolene, and Baclofen. Injectable antispasmodics, such as botulinum toxin (Botox). Anticonvulsants to help treat seizures. E.g.: If seizures become a problem, anticonvulsants such as Carbamazepine (Tegretol) are used. Anticholinergics to help manage uncontrollable body movements (dystonic cerebral palsy) or frequent drooling. Anticholinergics, such as glycopyrrolate (Robinul) help people with cerebral palsy having uncontrollable body movements (dystonic cerebral palsy) or drooling. Orthopedic surgery (for muscles, tendons, and joints) can be preferable to try preventing problems with bones and related muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Support to the operated region is provided by special devices and equipment, such as braces, casts, and splints. The types used depend on a child's needs. For example, a child may get a cast after surgery or as a means to restrict movement in one area to strengthen muscles and tendons in another part of the body. "This Blog doesn't contain any plagiarized material" Reference: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/cerebral_palsy-health/article_em.htm