CEREBRAL PALSY
Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the immature brain in the prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal period. It affects the child’s whole life, but with early intervention and lifelong rehabilitation, significant improvements can be achieved. Cerebral palsy affects each child differently. A moderately affected child can walk with slightly impaired balance. Some children may have difficulty in using their hands. A severely affected child may need support to sit up and may not be independent in daily activities. Cerebral palsy does not give the same symptoms in every patient. In some children, the affected muscles are more tense (tight, spastic) than normal and restrict the patient's movements. In some children, the muscles are too loose and the patient cannot manage his or her body as he or she wishes. Sometimes involuntary movements can also be seen. In some patients, half of their body may be affected, some only their legs, and some whole of their body may be affected. Speech difficulties, vision and hearing problems, and some degree of mental retardation may also seen. It is not possible to reverse the brain damage that occurred in cerebral palsy, but with rehabilitation, the child's development can be supported and they can develop motor skills. The damage to the brain does not worsen, but the effects may become more different as the child gets older. For example, deformities may develop in bones and joints. Therefore, regular follow-up and rehabilitation is very important. In addition to medical treatment such as muscle relaxants, neuro rehabilitation techniques, muscle-movement, sensory therapies, orthosis use, botulinum toxin (botox) injections are applied according to the child's condition. In particular, botulinum toxin injections allow the spastic muscle to relax and grow and to prevent deformities. Although surgical procedures involving muscles and bones may be required at appropriate ages, rehabilitation and follow-up must be continued. One of the most important elements of treatment is the intense support and interest of the family. With regular follow-up and rehabilitation, many children with cerebral palsy are able to lead self-sufficient and fulfilling meaningful lives. As a result, children with cerebral palsy can be brought as productive members of the society.