The symptoms of Cerebral Palsy vary from person to person. A person with severe Cerebral Palsy might need to use special equipment to be able to walk, or might not be able to walk at all and might need lifelong care. A person with mild Cerebral Palsy, on the other hand, might walk a little awkwardly, but might not need any special help. Cerebral Palsy does not get worse over time, though the exact symptoms can change over a person’s lifetime.

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All people with Cerebral Palsy have problems with movement and posture. There is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, but treatment can improve the lives of those who have the condition. It is important to begin a treatment program as early as possible.

After a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis is made, a team of health professionals works with the child and family to develop a plan to help the child reach his or her full potential. Common treatments include medicines; surgery; braces; and physical, occupational, and speech therapy. No single treatment is the best one for all children with Cerebral Palsy. Before deciding on a treatment plan, it is important to talk with the child’s doctor to understand all the risks and benefits. (www.cdc.gov)

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The Walk Foundation assists children with Cerebral Palsy in acquiring surgical procedures and prosthetics to improve joint mobility.  These procedures range from complex reconstructive bony procedures to tendon releases/lengthening and Botox injections.

 

Image taken from: discover.vumc.org