Overview of Cerebral Palsy and Non-Surgical Treatment Methods

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common of the childhood neuromuscular diseases and generally leads to permanent disability. Voluntary motor control impairment is the basic clinical manifestation. While the superficial sensation is generally normal, the cortical perception, joint position sense (proprioception) and the sensation of movement (kinesthetic perception) are impaired. The peripheral reflections (contractures, bone deformities) of the cerebral lesion are progressive. Cerebral injury resulting in cerebral palsy may develop in prenatal, perinatal or postnatal periods. However prenatal factors are mostly involved. The most significant risk factors include prematurity and low birth weight. Classification is made based on the tonus changes, the type of movement disorder and the number of extremities affected, rather than the cerebral lesion. Clinical and anatomic classification is used commonly. CP treatment aims to assist in increasing the physical, cognitive and communication capacity, achieving and maintaining mental balance for the individual and the family. It is multidisciplinary. (JAREM 2012; 2: 38-42)