Question
I have recently noticed that my child’s motor development is slower compared to same age children. For instance, at one year old, he has not yet learned to crawl and his response to external stimuli is dull. Could this be an early symptom of cerebral palsy?
Answer
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that develops before or during infancy, potentially caused by factors such as birth injuries, neonatal jaundice, brain hypoxia, or preterm birth. Early symptoms include increased muscle tone, difficulty with abduction, and in severe cases, muscle rigidity, spasms, and joint contracture positions. Mild cases may show poor hand dexterity and difficulty in walking without the heels touching the ground. Additionally, about one-third of patients experience language development and articulation disorders, strabismus, and varying degrees of seizures and intellectual disabilities. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for reducing the extent of intellectual impairment.