Cerebral Palsy (CP)
- ‘CP’ refers to a group of conditions that affect movement, posture and co-ordination
- CP is caused by an insult to the brain before, during or soon after birth
- Timing of the diagnosis depends on the severity, usually diagnosed between 2-4 years
- There are four main types of CP: Spastic, Dyskinetic, Ataxic and Mixed
- Depending on the parts of the body affected, CP is classed as Hemiplegia, Diplegia, Quadriplegia. The doctor can explain more regarding these at your consultation
- Symptoms of CP can be wide and varied. CP could present as: delayed milestones, stiff or floppy limbs, weak limbs, jerky or clumsy movements, tip toe walking
- A child with CP can also have problems with drooling, swallowing, speaking, vision, hearing, learning, muscles, joints, spine, bowel/bladder function, seizures
- Treatments are available to help child with CP to be as active and independent as possible
- Treatments could include: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech
- Therapy, Medications, Surgery, Aids, Equipment, Access arrangements, Mobility devices etc.
- Impact CP has on learning, general health, well-being, mobility, relationships, burden/stress on the family, employment, life outcomes, could be modified/minimised or prevented
- Easy to book appointments without waiting lists
- Comprehensive assessments covering all systems and aspects of functioning
- Detailed diagnostic report that can help you in getting the right help, support and services
- Referral/liaison with other professionals e.g. OT, SLT, Orthopaedics, as required
- Early detection and intervention mean better outcomes for your child
- I review reports from all settings e.g. neonatal care, nursery or school
- Carry out detailed history covering pregnancy, delivery, neonatal care if any, past medical history, developmental, social and family history
- Neurodevelopmental assessment for children under 8 years
- Carry out full physical examination including neurology, growth
- Inspect for associated conditions e.g. drooling, LD, constipation, etc.
- Review information from tests e.g. CT, MRI
- Build a picture of your child’s strengths, weaknesses and needs
- Provide you with a clear diagnostic report confirming all the medical problems
- Child may need to be seen more than once before a diagnosis of CP is made
- Arrange/recommend investigations e.g. MRI Brain scan
- Liaise with other therapists/professionals as required e.g. PT, OT, Orthotics
- Offer medications to address problems e.g. drooling, muscle tightness, constipation
- Offer you information about local and national sources of support and information
- Give you ideas to promote your child’s activities, comfort and independence
- Give you information regarding CP and things to monitor
- You could use medical report e.g. to gain extra support at school, apply for EHCP, request special school placement where required, claim allowances/benefits, apply for respite, request social care input, access leisure activities
- You will feel empowered to enable your child from this holistic assessment and action plan
- Present you with an option for follow-up