Cerebral palsy, spastic diplegic
Overview
Brain damage that involves muscle rigidity that occurs either in both arms or in both legs. The brain damage is often the result of a birth defect or some sort of trauma to the brain.
Symptoms
* Tight hip muscles * Scissor walk * Rigid arm muscles * Rigid leg muscles * Toe walking * Learning disability * Seizures * Walking problems * Turned in legs
Diagnosis
signs and symptoms for Cerebral palsy, spastic, diplegic has been gathered from various sources, may not be fully accurate, and may not be the full list of Cerebral palsy, spastic, diplegic signs or Cerebral palsy, spastic, diplegic symptoms. Furthermore, signs and symptoms of Cerebral palsy, spastic, diplegic may vary on an individual basis for each patient. Only your doctor can provide adequate diagnosis of any signs or symptoms and whether they are indeed Cerebral palsy, spastic, diplegic symptoms
Treatment
CP can’t be cured, but proper treatment can help affected children reach their full potential within the limitations set by this disorder. Such treatment requires a comprehensive and cooperative effort involving physicians, nurses, teachers, psychologists, the child’s family, and occupational, physical, and speech therapists. Home care is usually possible. Treatment usually includes interventions that encourage optimum development: ?Braces or splints and special appliances, such as adapted eating utensils and a low toilet seat with arms, help these children perform activities independently. ?An artificial urinary sphincter may be indicated for the incontinent child who can use the hand controls. ?Range-of-motion exercises minimize contractures. ?Orthopedic surgery may be indicated to correct contractures. Botulinum toxin has been shown to reduce or delay the need for surgery. ?Phenytoin, phenobarbital, or another anticonvulsant may be used to control seizures. ?Muscle relaxants or neurosurgery may be required to decrease spasticity. Children with milder forms of CP should attend a regular school; severely afflicted children may need special classes.