Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood. Cerebral means having to do with the brain. Palsy means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects a person’s ability to control his or her muscles.
What causes Cerebral Palsy in kids?
Cerebral Palsy happens when there is abnormal development of or damage to region of the brain that control motor function. This can occur before or during birth. Most cases of Cerebral palsy are congenital. Less commonly, CP can occur after birth. This is known as acquired CP and typically occurs from an infection or head injury.
In many cases, the specific reason for CP isn't known. It very well might be the result of an issue such as:
- Absence of oxygen to the brain
- Hereditary condition
- Infection
- Bleeding in the brain
- Serious jaundice
- Head injury
Who are risk of developing Cerebral Palsy?
A child is more in danger for CP due to any of the following:
- Preterm birth
- Inflammation of the placenta or amniotic fluid from an infection
- Blood clotting disorder
- Extremely low birthweight
- Infection with a virus
- Chemical or substance abuse during pregnancy
- Injury