Signs of Cerebral Palsy in Infants

The damage to the cerebrum that results in cerebral palsy can happen in several different ways. Infections contracted from the mother during gestation or during the first years of life are one cause. Meningitis, rubella, chicken pox, and syphilis are all linked to cerebral palsy in infants and young children. Others develop cerebral palsy from oxygen deprivation during the birthing process or because the brain never developed properly while still in the womb. Strokes, both before and after birth, and severe jaundice can result in the condition. There is also a strong link between premature birth and low birth weight and the prevalence of cerebral palsy in infants.

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, some signs of cerebral palsy may be present from birth. Pay attention to your infant's muscle tone and strength as they reach certain developmental milestones. Infants with the disorder may be unusually stiff and have a hard time relaxing their muscles and clenched fists, or may have muscles that are abnormally loose and low in tone. Infants and children on both ends of the spectrum have a harder than average time controlling their movements. As children age, coordination, balance, and reflexes may be an issue. Walking will happen later than normal and often includes an unsteady gait. Cerebral palsy occurs on a spectrum, so people with the condition have varying degrees of mobility, ranging from fully independent movement to requiring the use of walking aids or a wheel chair.

Infants who are known to be born at high risk for cerebral palsy may have a brain scan done soon after birth to look for signs of the disorder. Cranial ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI may reveal brain damage. Blood tests are done to make sure that no other disorders that could cause similar symptoms are present. An EEG will also be done on infants experiencing seizures.

Medications used to treat cerebral palsy include muscle relaxants usually taken orally, and Botox delivered in the form of an injection. Both treatments help with stiff and spastic muscles. Therapy is also an integral part of treating cerebral palsy in infants and all people. The goal of physical therapy is to improve mobility and proper muscle development and to help children and adults with cerebral palsy achieve their full physical potential. The appropriate stretches and exercises for each person can be learned from a professional and then performed throughout the day during the course of play or regular household activities. Beyond medications and therapy, some children with severe cases of cerebral palsy may undergo surgery to correct malformations and improve joint function. Adaptive equipment such as braces, scooters, and wheel chairs may also improve mobility and increase independence as children grow and develop.

Some secondary conditions associated with cerebral palsy include seizure disorders, incontinence, problems with speech and mental retardation. Not everyone with cerebral palsy experiences a secondary condition, but some live with more than one. Infants with a cerebral palsy diagnosis will be monitored for the occurrence of secondary conditions as they develop because most of these conditions cannot be identified in infancy.

Children with cerebral palsy often lead full and rich lives. Cerebral palsy is not a progressive disease, meaning that the damage to the brain will not get worse. Early intervention and ongoing physical therapy and evaluations are key to strengthening abilities and maximizing a child's potential.