Cerebral palsy

Muscle control and movement problems after a brain injury. If your child is showing symptoms of cerebral palsy our neurological and paediatric experts can help to treat them.

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What is cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy encompasses a group of conditions. These relate to problems with muscle control and movement. They are the result of an injury to the brain before, during or after birth. There are a range of treatments available to help your child's development.

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What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy?

Symptoms of cerebral palsy aren't immediately obvious in a newborn baby. They become clearer during the toddler stage of development. These include:

delay in development such as sitting and walking
unnatural stiffness or floppiness
weak arms and/or legs
clumsy and uncontrolled movements
muscle spasms

How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?

Your child's consultant will discuss their symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They may discuss your child's medical history and development. Tests they may then carry out can include:

brain scans (MRI or CT)
electroencephalogram (EEG)
small pads are placed on your child's scalp to assess brain activity
electromyogram (EMG)
blood tests

Potential treatment options

Your child's consultant will discuss treatment options available. These may include:

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR). This is a surgical operation available to children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. It's purpose is to improve their walking ability. SDR is possible for children between the age of four and twelve
Removable hand splints to help support muscles and joints - Injections to treat and relax muscles.
Temporary casting to hold muscles in place.
Physiotherapy seeks to promote movement, build strength and muscles.
Speech therapy.
Various medication may be advised to help muscle stiffness, and everyday issues such as sleeping.