Cerebral Palsy in Children Treated at Tampa General Hospital
Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by damage to the developing brain (usually before birth) that results in disorders in muscle tone and movement. It is a non-progressive disorder, which means damage to the brain will not worsen with age. Although much is still unknown about this developmental disorder, there is evidence to suggest that factors such as infections during pregnancy, genetic mutations, and traumatic head injury are the primary causes.
COMMON SIGNS OF CEREBRAL PALSY
The types and severity of impairments caused by cerebral palsy differ from person to person and can range from movement issues, such as floppiness or rigidity in the limbs and trunk, to learning disabilities. Typically, signs that a child may have this condition appear by age 2 or 3, and some of the most common problems he or she may experience include:
- Variations in muscle tone
- Muscle spasticity and/or rigidity
- Lack of muscle coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Tremors
- Delays in reaching motor skill milestones
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Delays in speech development
- Seizures
TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL PHYSICIANS TREAT CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY
At the Muma Children's Hospital at TGH, we have a team of specialists who can diagnose and treat children with cerebral palsy. Although there is no cure for this condition, our team can improve a child’s quality of life by tailoring care to his or her unique needs. We utilize an integrated treatment approach that can involve physical therapy, surgery, medications, and other interventions.
To find a pediatric orthopedic surgeon who can surgically address the effects of cerebral palsy, use our Physician Finder.