Cerebral Palsy (CP)

CP is a disorder that usually occurs before birth or during birth. The baby's blood supply to the brain is blocked and the brain cannot get the oxygen and nutrients that it needs. This causes parts of the brain to die. The symptoms depend on where in the brain the damage was done and the size of the damaged area. Children with CP may not be able to do certain movements, feel certain sensations, or speak properly.

It is very important for these children to progress through the normal stages of development, even if they are slower at it due to their physical difficulties. Physical therapists can help progress children with CP to the next stage of movement as well as help to decrease the chance of other complications occurring such as pain, abnormal bone and muscle growth, and a decreased ability to function independently. Physical therapists can also help to teach the child and family how to compensate for certain activities that may not get better.

Here are some good web pages with helpful information about CP:

• http://www.cerebralpalsycanada.com -Canadian CP association
  
• http://cerebralpalsy.org -American CP association
  
• http://www.ocpsa.on.ca -Ontario site about Cerebral Palsy and sports
  
• http://www.uscpaa.org -American site about Cerebral Palsy and sports
  

Other Neurological Conditions
Other Medical Conditions