Question 1

are there any new procedures or medications to help with cerebral palsy after age 18?

Accepted Answer

By symptom, not age: Treatment for cerebral palsy (CP) depends on symptoms. Medication to control seizures, as well as meds and/or surgery to relieve GI problems and muscle spasticity, are options that can be used at various ages. Each CP patient has a different set of issues so it is important to consult a doctor familiar with the patient's history & progress. For adults, jobs, mobility, & independence are important.

Question 2

i was wondering what are some of the newest medications, therapies, surgeries etc that can help people with cerebral palsy?

Accepted Answer

From ortho standpoin: ...T, we r involved in preventing contractures, ; directing pt ; home stretching programs. Also surgery is done to loosen tight contractures by selective cutting of extremely deforming muscles ; transfer of muscles 2 make up 4 deficiencies of others. Example: heel cord lengthening or transfer of post tib 2 a position that makes it an ankle dorsiflexor, , insteadof an invertor of the foot.

Question 3

what to do for chronic muscle tightness and pain that is also causing daily tension headaches (1.5 years) due to mild cerebral palsy. i was offered no medication or anything and im miserable and very depressed. pt hasnt worked much?

Accepted Answer

: There are options for treatment which may provide reduction in pain. Physical therapy, stretches and medication are often effective. A consultation w a pain specialist may be indicated.

Question 4

can drugs cause cerebral palsy?

Accepted Answer

Not directly: Cerebral palsy is caused by injury to an immature brain. It typically occurs when a child is born early or has an event where they have inadequate blood suppply or oxygen to the brain for a signifcant length of time.

Question 5

my child takes chloral hydrae for sleep he has cerebral palsy. is there concerns with this drug for long term use besides dependency affecting organs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 25 mg/kg/day : of Chloral Hydrate given long-term  can ^ risk of central sleep apnea from CNS depression, obstructive sleep apnea from respiratory depression, aspiration pneumonia if given on a full stomach, diarrhea &amp; vomiting if not given with a full glass of water, adverse interactions with anti-epileptics like phenobarbital &amp; some other meds, liver &amp; kidney damage, drug dependence, etc. Please see comment.

Question 6

tips on how to help babysit a child with cerebral palsy?

Accepted Answer

Interview the parent: The best source of information on this issue is the parent who deals with it daily. Many will provide you with a description of the activities of daily living and the kids usual routine. Any known do's & don'ts, feeding or hygiene needs should be reviewed. As long as you try to keep the kid well within his/her regular routine, things should go well.

Question 7

why do people with cerebral palsy need to use crutches on and off for around a year?

Accepted Answer

Learn to walk: Cerebral palsy can affect the balance, strength, and muscle tone to the point of causing risk for falls and for serious injuries.  With special braces, walkers, crutches, and good therapy these risks can be decreased and reasonable gait and balance can develop.  Some learn very fast, and others never develop adequate control and must remain in wheelchairs.

Question 8

does a child with cerebral palsy have to depend on others for everything? can this child be trained to lead a somewhat independent life?

Accepted Answer

Cerebral : Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the motor areas of the brain that can occur during pregnancy, childbirth or anytime up to age 3.  There are three main types: spastic, ataxic and dyskenetic - all of which have different symptoms.  Some people affected with cerebral palsy have very mild symptoms (my college roommate had mild cerebral palsy on her left which caused a slight limp - this did not stop her from graduating with honors, landing a great job, marrying and having 2 beautiful children.) and some people have symptoms that are more severe.  Because of this, each child's potential must be assessed individually.  In general, the earlier treatment begins, the better chance kids have of overcoming developmental disabilities and learning new ways to accomplish tasks that challenge them.  Treatment is interdisciplinary and can include interpersonal therapists, occupational therapists, medications, orthotics and surgeries.  The best people to ask about a child's prognosis are the doctors and therapists working with the child.

Legal disclaimer: I am providing this general and basic information as a public service and my response to this question does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship.  For any additional information, advice, or specific concerns, please speak with your own physician.  The information provided is current as of the date of the answer entry.

Question 9

can a person with cerebral palsy start to walk on their own with pt?

Accepted Answer

Yes: It depends on the level, but yes it is possible.  Good luck.

Question 10

it'd be possible that a person with cerebral palsy start to walk on their own if they pratice alot?

Accepted Answer

Depends on severity: This is a broad question since so much depends on the cerebral palsy, which muscles are involved, the degree of involvement, and the state of health of the joints. People affected will function to the best of their ability, and will eventually figure out a way to move around, but that "practice" is often guided by physical therapy to learn best ambulating techniques.

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Doctor answers about:

Cerebral palsy medication

A member asked:

Are there any new procedures or medications to help with cerebral palsy after age 18?

A member asked:

I was wondering what are some of the newest medications, therapies, surgeries etc that can help people with cerebral palsy?

A member asked:

What to do for chronic muscle tightness and pain that is also causing daily tension headaches (1.5 years) due to mild cerebral palsy. i was offered no medication or anything and im miserable and very depressed. pt hasnt worked much?

A member asked:

Can drugs cause cerebral palsy?

A member asked:

My child takes chloral hydrae for sleep he has cerebral palsy. is there concerns with this drug for long term use besides dependency affecting organs?

A member asked:

Tips on how to help babysit a child with cerebral palsy?

A member asked:

Why do people with cerebral palsy need to use crutches on and off for around a year?

A member asked:

Does a child with cerebral palsy have to depend on others for everything? can this child be trained to lead a somewhat independent life?

A member asked:

Can a person with cerebral palsy start to walk on their own with pt?

A member asked:

It'd be possible that a person with cerebral palsy start to walk on their own if they pratice alot?

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