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Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of heterogeneous disorders involving lifelong motor function impairments that affect muscle tone, posture, and/or movement. These disorders result from damage to the developing brain of the fetus or infant.
Although CP itself is not a neurodegenerative disease, clinical manifestations may change as children grow and the CNS develops into adulthood. Motor dysfunction manifests as functional limitations and activity restrictions, varying in severity.
Major motor symptoms are often accompanied by other conditions, including sensory or perceptual alterations, intellectual disability, communication and behavioral difficulties, seizures, and musculoskeletal complications. It is one of the most common disabling conditions in childhood.
The prevalence of cerebral palsy varies worldwide. According to WHO survey data, the incidence among live births is about 1% to 5%. In developed countries, the incidence in newborns is approximately 2‰ to 3‰, while in Asia-Pacific countries it is about 1‰ to 2.5‰. The U.S. reports an estimated 25,000 new cases annually, with at least 400,000 CP patients nationwide. In China, the prevalence among children aged 0 to 6 years is 1.8% to 4%, with about 46,000 new cases added each year.
① Motor dysfunction: Children may show poor self-control of movement; severe cases may be unable to grasp objects, walk, turn over, sit, stand, or perform normal chewing and swallowing.
② Intellectual disability: About 25% to 80% of children present with cognitive impairment, affecting learning and intellectual abilities.
③ Epilepsy: About 25% to 50% of children develop epilepsy, requiring long-term management.
④ Sensory disorders: Some children may have visual, hearing, or speech impairments, affecting daily communication.
⑤ Skeletal and joint deformities: Long-term abnormal muscle tone may lead to contractures, limb deformities, and other skeletal problems.
Neural reconstruction based on stem cell therapy is the most promising treatment for cerebral palsy after traditional approaches. Stem cell therapy works through neural repair and enhanced brain plasticity, offering potential breakthroughs in improving motor, cognitive, and neurological functions.
① Rehabilitation training: Includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, aimed at improving motor ability, daily living skills, and communication.
② Medication: Muscle relaxants and other drugs help relieve muscle spasms and control seizures.
③ Surgery: Corrective surgery may be needed for severe muscle or skeletal deformities to improve function.
④ Assistive devices: Orthotic devices or walkers help improve mobility and independence.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that early intervention is critical in the treatment of cerebral palsy. During infancy, the brain exhibits strong plasticity, and timely rehabilitation training and treatment can significantly improve prognosis, helping children better integrate into social life.
