Treatment Options for Cerebral Palsy in Baton Rouge

Cerebral palsy is the most common childhood disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately two to three out of every 1,000 children in the U.S. are born with cerebral palsy. While there is presently no cure for cerebral palsy, those with this condition can lead a healthy and full life with treatment and disease management. Cerebral palsy affects each individual differently so, therapies for cerebral palsy are unique to each patient. For this reason, it is important for patients with cerebral palsy in Baton Rouge to find the right physicians and specialists for their treatment. As the region’s largest network of neurological experts, The NeuroMedical Center is the leading destination for cerebral palsy diagnosis and treatment. The team of neurologists and therapists with The NeuroMedical Center have helped many Baton Rouge patients with cerebral palsy achieve their highest level of functioning and improve their quality of life.

Understanding Cerebral Palsy and Its Causes

Cerebral palsy impacts the part of the brain that controls the body’s motor functions and muscle movement. Cerebral palsy is recognized as a neurological condition that is caused by brain injury or abnormal brain formation that occurs either before, during or soon after birth when a child’s brain is still developing. The disorder is characterized by impaired muscle coordination most notably in the arms and legs and other large body movements. In some cases, cerebral palsy also affects fine motor skills such as writing and eating with a fork and knife, as well as speech impairment. The growing body of research around the disease and its causes indicates that cerebral palsy is most often the result of damage to the brain or malformation that takes place either prior to birth or during delivery. Some of the risk factors include accidents, injury, medical malpractice, and infection.

Cerebral Palsy Symptoms and Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy may be incurable but it is not a progressive disease and with effective treatment and management, most children diagnosed with cerebral palsy grow to lead healthy adult lives. The condition does cause impairment that can limit a person’s abilities and may prevent the individual from leading a totally independent life. Physical symptoms of cerebral palsy can present in different parts of the body and to varying degrees. It can impact only a single arm or leg, several, or all limbs. The condition can cause face, limb or hand muscles to be stiff and contract too much or simultaneously resulting in abrupt movements, painful positions, and shaking or writhing. Other related symptoms of cerebral palsy include impaired balance and posture, as well as seizures, vision or hearing problems and cognitive impairment. Each case of cerebral palsy is unique depending on the level of damage or malformation and the stage of brain development at which the injury occurred. Some people with the disorder may have mild movement tremors and are capable of functioning independently with just a little extra help. Those with more severe cases of cerebral palsy may be completely paralyzed and need more extensive care.

Living With Cerebral Palsy in Baton Rouge

An estimated 764,000 children and adults in the U.S. are currently living with cerebral palsy. Although the disorder is permanent, this does not mean an individual with cerebral palsy cannot improve their functioning and coordination. In fact, early diagnosis and intervention can help a child learn to manage and overcome developmental impairments earlier, which can lead to better quality of life later on. Physical, occupational, and speech therapies, medications to relax muscle spasms, surgery to repair abnormalities, and assistive orthotic devices and computer communication aides can all contribute to improved functioning and increased capabilities for those with cerebral palsy. Importantly, receiving proper treatment will help enhance social interaction and participation in everyday activities. Fortunately, advanced therapies and technologies for treating cerebral palsy are available to patients right here in Baton Rouge at The NeuroMedical Center. With a team of experienced neurologic specialists who are skilled in the latest treatment and therapy options for cerebral palsy, patients throughout Baton Rouge, Louisiana and the region, can find the leading edge care close to home. If your child or your loved one has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy in Baton Rouge, schedule an appointment with the neurologist at The NeuroMedical Center today.

Categorised in: Blog, Uncategorized