Question
My child is over three years old but shows symptoms such as dull eyes, low activity levels, and few smiles. Could this be a sign of pediatric cerebral palsy? How should it be treated?
Answer
Pediatric cerebral palsy is a non-progressive brain injury or brain developmental abnormality that occurs before birth or within the first month after birth due to various causes, leading to central nervous system motor disorders. Common clinical features include abnormal posture and muscle tone, muscle weakness, involuntary movements, and ataxia. It often accompanies sensory, cognitive, communication, and behavioral impairments, as well as secondary skeletal muscle abnormalities. Epileptic seizures may also occur. The treatment goal should focus on maximizing the child’s functional improvement and quality of life, while minimizing secondary joint deformities and soft tissue contractures.