Symptoms and Signs of Cerebral Palsy

Symptoms and Signs of Cerebral Palsy

Being aware of the signs of cerebral palsy can help identify the problem early and begin the therapy program for maximizing the individual's capabilities.

Parents or caregivers can look out for the following signs in a growing baby, if any of the risk factors is present. These signs may not necessarily mean that the child suffers from cerebral palsy, but being alert and seeking timely help from professionals involved, can go a long way in the development of the individual with cerebral palsy.

Some of the signs that can occur in a child with cerebral palsy are:

• Delayed developmental milestones such as crawling, turning over, etc.
• Unusual way of crawling, due to uncoordinated voluntary movements.
• Abnormal muscle tone, either too stiff or too lax, that affects the sitting and standing postures.
• Difficulty in sucking, swallowing and chewing.

• Awkward positions of lying down.
• Poor coordination and balance, improper gait while walking.
• Writhing movements or tremors, or abnormal contractions of muscles during voluntary movements.
• Limitations in range of movements.
• Hearing or vision problems.
• Problems of bladder and bowel control.
• Child has seizures, either frequently or once in a while.