Cerebral
Palsy & Spasticity -
Managing
Cerebral Palsy for Life As the region's first and most comprehensive cerebral palsy management
center, our mission is to work with people throughout their lives, not just
when their condition first occurs, which is usually before, during, or
shortly after birth.
Depending on the area of the brain affected
and the extent of damage, the following may occur either alone or in combination:
-
Spasticity
(tight, stiff
muscles)
.
-
Dystonia (rigid muscles with decreased
movement)
.
-
Dyskinesia
(involuntary movement)
ataxia (imbalance)
People with cerebral palsy
may also have other conditions such as seizures, visual impairment, or
difficulty with hearing or speaking.
Because of the complexity of cerebral palsy
and the fact it affects each person a little differently, we feel this lifespan approach to management is
important. We deal with MEDICAL ISSUES that can affect the overall health of
the patient.
We work with
FUNCTIONAL ISSUES such as bladder continence
to ensure as much independence as possible for each person.
We provide extensive education for individuals and families regarding the
SOCIAL ISSUES and EMOTIONAL ISSUES that can be expected as they prepare for life
with cerebral palsy.
And we deal with
TRANSITIONAL ISSUES as individuals learn to become
productive members of the community.
The important thing to remember is that
cerebral palsy is not a contagious disease, nor is it a progressive disease. In fact, it's not a disease at
all. And although there is no cure, children and adults who have access to
various therapies and technologies can realize tremendous growth and
development as individuals.
.
.
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