Question
My wife and I have been blessed with a child, but during a hospital check-up, we were told that our child is suffering from cerebral palsy. The diagnosis was made when the child was one year old, and treatment has been ongoing, though the results have not been very satisfactory. We are considering seeking treatment at a place known for its effectiveness. I would like to understand more about the treatment for this condition.
Answer
Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive syndrome of brain damage caused by various reasons from birth to one month after birth. The causes are complex and diverse, with many primarily due to prenatal factors of the mother, such as intrauterine infections and developmental delays, including trauma during pregnancy and multiple pregnancies. These factors can lead to cerebral palsy. The clinical goal of treating cerebral palsy is to maximize a child’s functional abilities to improve their quality of life, minimize secondary joint deformities and soft tissue contractures, and avoid or delay surgical treatments as much as possible. Physical therapy is conducted to increase joint mobility, regulate muscle tone, improve control and coordination skills, and perform corrective therapy, soft tissue stretching, etc. Regular fine motor skill training is also conducted to gradually master basic daily operations. It is best to do so under the guidance and recommendations of a doctor.