Cerebral palsy is a neurologic disorder that affects muscle movement and coordination and normally manifests during infancy or early childhood. Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to areas of the brain that control muscle movements. Brain damage may occur during childbirth or during the first 3 years of age, according to KidsHealth.org. Children with cerebral palsy may experience difficulties learning how to walk.
Delayed Walking
Most children with cerebral palsy are born with the disorder, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The disease may remain undetected for months. Delayed walking is usually an early sign of cerebral palsy. Normally, healthy children are able to walk without support when they reach 1 year old. However, children with cerebral palsy may experience difficulties in learning how to take their first steps.
Early Diagnosis
Early treatment of cerebral palsy can help prevent severe physical disability. Consult your doctor if notice that your child has problems with achieving developmental milestones, such as sitting, rolling, crawling and walking. Inform your doctor if your child has abnormal movements, such as unsteady gait, tremors, twisting, or jerking of the arms or legs.
Walking Devices
Cerebral palsy has no cure, but a variety of treatments can help improve a child's life. Medications, muscle braces, walking aids, wheelchairs and surgery can help improve muscle functioning in children with cerebral palsy. Surgery can help repair scoliosis or dislocation which may affect muscle movement of the lower extremities. Ongoing physical and occupational therapies can enable a child with cerebral palsy to learn how to walk properly.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cerebral palsy in children include difficulties suckling or feeding, problems swallowing, increased drooling, vomiting, constipation, delayed growth, hearing or vision problems, speech difficulties, urinary incontinence, mental retardation, and dental problems according to MayoClinic.com.Children with cerebral palsy may also have difficulty with physical activity.
