Question
A two-year-old child is experiencing symptoms of weakness in the right hand and foot, walking with an outwardly curved foot, a clenched right hand, and unclear hearing in the right ear. The diagnosis is cerebral palsy. The family wants to understand how to proceed with treatment.
Answer
Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects a child’s motor function, commonly characterized by increased muscle tone, difficulty with abduction, and in severe cases, muscle rigidity, spasms, and joint contractures. Milder symptoms may include poor hand dexterity and difficulty with foot placement while walking. Patients often have language development and speech disorders, strabismus, and about one-third may experience varying degrees of seizures and intellectual disabilities. Cerebral palsy can lead to motor development delays, such as lack of active movement by three months after birth or continued tight hand gripping between four to six months. Treatment for cerebral palsy should be tailored to specific symptoms and conditions and may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions.