Question
A four-and-a-half-month-old baby cannot cross his hands, and when trying to bring them close together, the shoulder and elbow joints show strong resistance, accompanied by crying and fussing. Does this situation indicate a problem?
Answer
The baby’s high muscle tone is confirmed, but it is not yet possible to diagnose whether it is cerebral palsy. It is recommended to visit a pediatric neurorehabilitation department for a systematic examination to assess for abnormalities in posture reflexes, thumb inward curvature, talipes equinovarus, and external rotation of upper and lower limbs. If necessary, a brain CT scan may also be required. Even if the examination results show abnormalities, it cannot be directly diagnosed as cerebral palsy but should be referred to as a central coordination disorder. The first half-year is the golden period for rehabilitation treatment, so it is advisable to conduct the examination as soon as possible.