Question
How should one handle a child with cerebral palsy? There is a case of an eight and a half month old baby who can lift her head but prefers to tilt her head down or lean on an adult’s shoulder. She is unable to sit steadily and has limited ability to roll over. She also does not respond well to calling. The hospital diagnosed her with cerebral palsy.
Answer
Cerebral palsy is a syndrome caused by non-progressive brain damage due to certain reasons before, during, or early in infancy. Effective treatment methods for cerebral palsy patients include rehabilitation training and surgical treatment. It is recommended that rehabilitation treatment should be throughout the entire process of cerebral palsy patients and should be persistent. By increasing joint mobility, adjusting muscle tone, improving motor control, coordination, strength, and endurance, it is possible to enhance motor function and thereby increase the ability to live independently.