Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders involving loss of movement or other nerve functions. These disorders are caused by injuries to the brain that happen before birth or near the time of birth. The injuries are found in the cerebrum—the largest part of the brain, which is involved in higher mental faculties, sensations, and voluntary muscle activities. Symptoms of cerebral palsy include:

• Seizures
• Muscle contractions
• Spasticity in one or more limbs
• Loss of movement (paralysis)
• Speech, visual, and hearing abnormalities
• Difficulty sucking or feeding
• Irregular breathing
• Delayed development of motor skills, such as reaching, sitting, and crawling
• Mental retardation
• Progressive joint contractures
• Limited range of motion
• Peg teeth

MedStar National Rehabilitation Network offers a range of treatment services for persons with cerebral palsy. The goal of this treatment is to maximize independence. Services may include:

• Medical evaluation and care
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Provision or referrals for braces (orthoses), glasses, and hearing aids
• Medications to reduce tremors, spasticity, and seizures
• Other services, such as rehabilitation nursing, as needed.