A new rat model of cerebral palsy (CP) with both muscle stiffness (spasticity) and involuntary muscle contractions (dystonia) may help researchers better understand the mechanisms leading to these motor symptoms in humans, and help with the development of more effective treatments. The study was the first to…
Pain is a common problem among children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP), and it can negatively affect daily activities and sleep. But, being older, female, and having decreased mobility are factors that increase the risk of experiencing a higher frequency or intensity of pain. Those findings are included in…
Depression, burden of care, and fatigue all hamper quality of life for mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP), a study found. A “holistic approach” including training in managing children with CP along with “psychological interventions” would improve quality of life for these mothers, the researchers said. The…
I need to start living as though I am a healthy person. Saving my most cherished experiences for the future, for when I am physically nourished and capable, isn’t working for me. Putting life on hold My dreams and expectations for a future overflowing with family, adventure, joy, laughter, and beauty…
Everyone needs adequate sleep each night. Sleep allows the body to rest and recharge for the following day. But for people with cerebral palsy, sleeping isn’t always easy, as we frequently struggle with spasticity and involuntarily movements. I have difficulty sleeping. Luckily, I’ve found ways to help me address…
Family dynamics, the professional competencies of the therapist, the type of therapy, and environmental factors all can influence the likelihood that parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) will adhere to occupational therapy (OT), a new study found. The study, “Exploration of the Influential Factors…
A combination of polyethylene glycol and Motilium (domperidone) can decrease chronic constipation in children with cerebral palsy more effectively than either treatment alone, a study suggests. The study, “Comparison of three therapeutic interventions for chronic constipation in paediatric patients with cerebral palsy: a randomised clinical…
Among children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Sweden, differences in treatment are evident based on sex and place of birth, a new study shows. While some of these differences may have underlying biological causes — such as differing rates of scoliosis in the sexes leading to discrepancies in the use…
Last month, I wrote about how I took the plunge into the world of sharing my perspective through video on social media. Having been socialized to feel shame, embarrassment, and even fear about sharing myself this way because of my disability, I experienced conflicting emotions about the potential ramifications.
Spasticity is common with many types of cerebral palsy (CP). Everyone handles spasticity differently, and spasms vary depending on the extent of CP. Because I have athetoid mixed CP, spasms are part of my daily life. In this column, I’d like to share some tips that I find helpful…