Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect body movements. According to the Mayo Clinic, it occurs in about four out of every 1,000 births in the United States. Cerebral palsy cannot be cured, but the right treatment, including physical therapy, can provide enormous aid.
Spasticity
Cerebral palsy is often characterized by super-tight muscle tone or spasticity, which may lead to joint deformity, and may also include partial or total paralysis, especially of the extremities.
Cause
Cerebral palsy is caused by brain injury and infection, usually before birth.
Time Frame
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong affliction with symptoms that rarely change, as the cause itself rarely changes.
Capability
Cerebral palsy is not a life sentence to doom; many adults with cerebral palsy can participate in life to varying degrees, especially when rendered appropriate assistance.
Identification
Cerebral palsy is sometimes known as spastic paralysis.
