All posts tagged: cerebral palsy

For parents, watching your child struggle with everyday movements due to spastic cerebral palsy can be difficult. The stiffness and muscle tightness that characterize this condition make even the simplest tasks a challenge. But with the right support and care, there are ways to help your child move more comfortably and live a fuller life.

What is Spastic Cerebral Palsy?

Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type of cerebral palsy, affecting roughly 80% of children diagnosed with this condition. It is characterized by increased muscle tone, resulting in stiffness and difficulties with movement. This stiffness, known as spasticity, is caused by disrupted signals from the brain to the muscles, making even simple movements challenging.

How Spasticity Affects Movement

In children with spastic cerebral palsy, the muscles often feel tight and resist movement. This can lead to difficulties in performing everyday activities such as walking, dressing, and eating. The degree of spasticity can vary from mild to severe, affecting one or more limbs, and may require different levels of intervention to manage effectively.

Signs and Symptoms of Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Spastic cerebral palsy presents with various symptoms that may affect different parts of the body. These symptoms can include:

• Stiff or tight muscles, particularly in the legs, arms, and back.
• Abnormal gait, such as walking on toes or a scissoring gait where the knees cross.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as picking up small objects or writing.
• Delayed milestones, including sitting, crawling, and walking.
• Difficulty with speech due to spasticity in the facial and throat muscles.

Types of Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Spastic cerebral palsy is divided into several types based on the limbs affected:

• Spastic Diplegia: Primarily affects the legs, making walking difficult.
• Spastic Hemiplegia: Affects one side of the body, usually an arm and a leg.
• Spastic Quadriplegia: Affects all four limbs and the body, often resulting in severe mobility and communication challenges.

Managing Spastic Cerebral Palsy

There is no cure for spastic cerebral palsy, but there are various treatments available to help manage the symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach, often involving pediatric neurologists, orthopedists, physical therapists, and other specialists, is essential for comprehensive care.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for children with spastic cerebral palsy. It helps improve mobility, strength, and coordination. Regular therapy sessions can also prevent the worsening of contractures (permanent muscle shortening) and help your child achieve greater independence in daily activities.

Orthotic Support

Braces, such as ankle foot orthoses (AFOs), are commonly prescribed to support the feet and ankles, helping children walk more efficiently. These braces can prevent issues like toe walking and improve overall stability.

Medical and Surgical Interventions

• Botox Injections: Used to reduce muscle spasticity and improve movement.
• Surgery: In cases where spasticity causes severe deformities or pain, surgical interventions may be necessary to correct bone and muscle alignment.

The Importance of Regular Monitoring and Adjustments

As your child grows, their needs and the effectiveness of treatments may change. Regular check-ups with your child’s care team are crucial to ensuring that therapies and interventions are adjusted to provide the best outcomes.

Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Well-being

Children with spastic cerebral palsy may face challenges beyond their physical symptoms, including feelings of frustration, embarrassment, or isolation. It’s important to provide emotional support and ensure that your child feels included and understood. Encouraging participation in activities, fostering social connections, and seeking support from counselors or support groups can make a big difference in your child’s mental health.

Empowering Parents and Families

Navigating life with spastic cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are here to support you every step of the way. From providing medical care to offering resources and guidance, our goal is to help your child reach their full potential.

Choose a Holistic Approach to Care

Caring for a child with cerebral palsy requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach. By understanding the condition, seeking regular care, and focusing on your child’s physical and emotional needs, you can help them achieve a better quality of life. At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are committed to partnering with you on this journey, providing the expert care and support your family deserves.

Meet Dr. David Siambanes

Dr. Siambanes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, is fellowship-trained in both pediatric orthopedics and spinal deformities. His passion for addressing the needs of disabled children has led to his expertise in the treatment of cerebral palsy.

He has performed countless procedures to improve walking and sitting tolerance, reducing pain and correcting deformities in children with cerebral palsy.

Click here to request a consultation with Dr. Siambanes today.

Children with cerebral palsy often face challenges with mobility due to muscle spasticity. Foot braces, also known as orthoses, play a significant role in helping these children walk more efficiently and with less pain.

The Role of Foot Braces in Cerebral Palsy

Foot braces, particularly ankle foot orthoses (AFOs), are commonly prescribed for children with cerebral palsy. These braces support the foot and ankle, helping to improve walking patterns and reduce discomfort.

Types of Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs)

• Hinged AFOs: These braces allow some movement, providing flexibility while maintaining support.
• Rigid AFOs: These braces keep the foot in a fixed position, which helps in preventing toe walking and maintaining proper alignment.

Benefits of AFOs

• Prevention of Toe Walking: AFOs help keep the foot flat, preventing the child from walking on their toes.
• Improved Foot Control: For diplegic children who tend to be flat-footed, AFOs offer better control and stability.
• Enhanced Walking Efficiency: By providing proper support, AFOs make walking less painful and more efficient.

Selecting the Right Brace

Choosing the right brace involves a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified orthopedist, like Dr. Siambanes, and a certified orthotist. These professionals will assess your child’s specific needs and determine the most suitable type of brace.

Factors Considered in Brace Selection

• Degree of Spasticity: The severity of muscle tightness will influence whether a hinged or rigid brace is recommended.
• Foot and Ankle Alignment: Proper alignment is crucial for effective walking, and the type of brace selected will help maintain this alignment.
• Child’s Activity Level: More active children may benefit from hinged AFOs that allow greater flexibility, while less active children might need rigid AFOs for better support.
• Comfort and Fit: Ensuring that the brace fits well and is comfortable for the child to wear is essential for long-term use.

Wearing and Usage Guidelines

Children typically wear braces for 6-8 hours a day. In some cases, nighttime braces are also recommended to maintain proper alignment while sleeping.

Addressing Concerns About Wearing Braces

Many children feel self-conscious about wearing braces, especially during school hours. It’s important to address these feelings and find solutions that encourage brace use without causing embarrassment.

When Braces Become Intolerable

If a child finds braces uncomfortable or intolerable, other treatments such as casting, Botox injections, or surgery may be necessary to correct alignment issues and prevent further complications.

Importance of Regular Evaluations

Regular evaluations by a qualified orthopedist and orthotist are crucial to ensure the braces are fitting correctly and effectively aiding the child’s mobility. These professionals can make necessary adjustments and provide alternative solutions if needed.

Get Care for Your Child with Cerebral Palsy

Foot braces are a vital part of managing cerebral palsy, offering significant benefits in terms of comfort and mobility. Ensuring that your child receives the proper evaluation and support from healthcare professionals will help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for children with cerebral palsy. Dr. Siambanes is here to support your child’s journey to improved mobility and a better quality of life through the effective use of foot braces and other treatments. Click here to contact us and schedule an appointment today.

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and coordination. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, and while there is no cure, various treatments can significantly improve quality of life. 

Under the guidance of Dr. Siambanes and Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are committed to raising awareness and providing resources for families and individuals affected by cerebral palsy. The cerebral palsy treatments below are among the many available options.

A Look at Cerebral Palsy Treatments

Cerebral palsy treatments are diverse and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. They aim to manage symptoms and improve motor functions. An interdisciplinary approach, incorporating therapies, medications, and sometimes surgical interventions, often proves most effective.

Among the many therapeutic options available, physical therapy and occupational therapy are two of the most commonly recommended treatments. These therapies are crucial in promoting mobility, independence, and daily functioning for individuals with cerebral palsy.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of cerebral palsy treatment, focusing on enhancing motor skills, strength, and balance. Through targeted exercises, physical therapists help improve muscle strength and coordination, leading to better movement control. 

Additionally, therapy activities are designed to boost balance and flexibility, significantly reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Dr. Siambanes and pediatric physical therapists work together to tailor exercise programs that improve strength, mobility, and coordination.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is a vital component of cerebral palsy treatments. It helps individuals develop the skills needed for daily living. Therapists work with children to teach them essential tasks such as dressing, eating, and bathing, promoting greater independence.

Additionally, they recommend the use of adaptive equipment, such as special utensils or seating arrangements, to facilitate these activities. Through tailored strategies, occupational therapy enhances the ability to perform everyday tasks, thereby improving overall quality of life as part of comprehensive cerebral palsy treatments.

Advanced Gait Analysis

Our state-of-the-art motion analysis center is equipped for 3-D gait analysis, allowing us to precisely measure movement, muscle activity, and force production during walking. This advanced system supports accurate diagnoses and guides the development of targeted treatment plans for improved mobility and function.

Advanced Cerebral Palsy Treatments

Advanced cerebral palsy treatments include medications and surgical solutions, which can be tailored to address specific symptoms and improve quality of life. These advanced cerebral palsy treatments offer targeted solutions that, when combined with therapies, can significantly improve daily functioning.

Medications

• Muscle Relaxants: Medications such as baclofen and diazepam are prescribed to reduce muscle spasticity and improve movement
• Botox Injections: Botulinum toxin can be injected into specific muscles to relieve spasticity for a few months, aiding in more effective physical therapy
• Anticonvulsants: Used to control seizures, which are common in individuals with cerebral palsy

Surgical Solutions

Surgical options, as advised by Dr. Siambanes, might include orthopedic surgery for tendon release and muscle lengthening, as well as innovative procedures like selective dorsal rhizotomy and intrathecal baclofen therapy.

• Orthopedic Surgery: Procedures like tendon release and muscle lengthening aim to correct alignment and improve mobility
• Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR): A neurosurgical procedure that reduces spasticity by cutting nerve fibers that cause muscle tightness
• Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy (ITB): ITB involves the implantation of a pump that delivers muscle relaxants directly to the spinal fluid, providing long-term relief from spasticity

Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Alternative therapies are an important aspect of comprehensive cerebral palsy treatments, offering additional avenues to improve quality of life. Aquatic therapy, or hydrotherapy, uses water’s buoyancy to support movement and reduce stress on muscles and joints. This therapy helps enhance motor skills and reduce spasticity through low-impact exercises.

Speech and language therapy focuses on improving communication skills, which are essential for social interaction and development. Therapists work on articulation and fluency to enhance speech clarity, and for nonverbal children, they introduce communication aids like picture boards or speech-generating devices. These therapies help children express themselves better and interact more effectively with their environment.

Our Multidisciplinary Approach

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, under the leadership of Dr. Siambanes, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive approach to care, tapping into the expertise of specialists from various fields to ensure every aspect of each child’s needs is addressed. This multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to our mission, ensuring that all treatments are cohesive and tailored to enhance our patient’s overall quality of life. Our multidisciplinary approach includes access to:

• Pediatric Neurologists: Pediatric neurologists provide expert management of seizures and spasticity through tailored medication plans guided by Dr. Siambanes.
• Pediatric Neurosurgeons: These surgeons perform selective dorsal rhizotomy and install baclofen pumps to manage severe spasticity as part of strategies developed under Dr. Siambanes’ supervision.
• Pediatric Physiatrists: Physiatrists provide medical management of spasticity and targeted Botox injections to enhance function in coordination with Dr. Siambanes’ treatment protocols.
• Pediatric Orthopedists: Our orthopedists conduct surgeries to release contractures and realign deformities, improving mobility and use of limbs, following the comprehensive plans laid out by Dr. Siambanes.
• Pediatric Physical Therapists: Physical therapists focus on rehabilitation to boost range of motion, gait, and strength for better daily functionality, integrated into Dr. Siambanes’ holistic care strategy.

This collaborative team approach ensures each child at Children’s Cerebral Palsy receives the most effective, customized treatment plan possible, combining medical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care led by Dr. Siambanes.

Get Expert Advice and Support Today

Children’s Cerebral Palsy, under the leadership of Dr. Siambanes, is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care and support for families and individuals with cerebral palsy. We are committed to crafting personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each child. Contact Dr. Siambanes and the Children’s Cerebral Palsy team now to schedule your consultation and start on the path to better management and improved daily living for your child. Together, with our comprehensive and compassionate approach, we can make a significant difference.

We are excited to announce that Dr. David Siambanes will be presenting an important lecture at the 26th Annual Family Café on Friday, June 14, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Bayhill 29. This session, titled “Orthopedic Care of the Child With Cerebral Palsy,” is an essential opportunity for families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to gain deeper insights into the specialized orthopedic needs of children with cerebral palsy.

Lecture Details

The session will cover the natural progression of orthopedic deformities in children with cerebral palsy. A significant focus will be on the walking difficulties faced by children with cerebral palsy. Dr. Siambanes will outline the necessary interventions that can assist in maximizing mobility and function.

Treatment strategies designed to maximize function and improve walking capabilities will be thoroughly explored, providing attendees with actionable knowledge to support children in achieving their best mobility outcomes.

About The 26th Annual Family Café

The Family Café remains a cornerstone event for collaboration, advocacy, friendship, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities and their families. This year’s event will feature over 230 breakout sessions across various topics, keynote speeches, and the Annual Governor’s Summit on Disabilities, among many other activities designed to enrich the disability community.

Dr. Siambanes’ lecture is just one of many sessions that cater to the diverse needs and interests of attendees. Whether you’re a family member, a healthcare provider, or an advocate, the insights from this session are invaluable.

We encourage all attendees to explore the full range of sessions and activities at The Family Café. It’s not just an event; it’s a community and a movement towards a more informed, empowered, and connected life for people with disabilities and their families.

Please join us in this engaging session with Dr. Siambanes to learn more about improving the lives of children with cerebral palsy through dedicated orthopedic care.

For more information on the full schedule and other activities at The 26th Annual Family Café, please visit https://familycafe.net/annual-family-cafe/. 

Hip dysplasia is a common but severe issue in children with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy that occurs when the hip joints do not form properly. In these children, muscle tightness and uneven muscular tension can pull the hip out of its socket during developmental years. This misalignment often results in significant discomfort and can severely impact the child’s daily life.

Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in Children

The primary indication of hip dysplasia in children is pain which can be evident during activities like sitting or diaper changes, and even while at rest. Children who are nonverbal may express discomfort through crying or agitation, signaling pain that they cannot articulate.

Why Early Treatment is Essential

Leaving hip dysplasia untreated can lead to worsening conditions and more severe pain. It’s not just about discomfort; untreated hip dysplasia can lead to long-term physical complications that may hinder sitting balance and overall mobility.

Optimal Timing for Treatment

The best results for treating hip dysplasia are typically achieved when the procedure to correct the hip alignment is performed between the ages of seven and twelve. This timing allows the hip joint to develop more normally as the child grows.

The Surgical Solution: Hip Relocation

Hip relocation surgery involves repositioning the hip bone back into its socket. This procedure is critical as it helps the hip joint to develop properly and maintains the alignment necessary for comfortable sitting, especially as the child transitions into adulthood.

Life After Surgery

Post-surgery, children usually experience a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in their ability to participate in daily activities. The surgery, combined with follow-up care such as physical therapy, ensures the hip remains properly positioned as the child continues to grow.

Supporting Your Child Through Recovery

Recovery from hip relocation surgery involves close monitoring by healthcare professionals and support at home from family. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy to strengthen the hip and surrounding muscles, aiding in faster recovery and better overall function.

Providing Comfort and Mobility to Children with Cerebral Palsy

Addressing hip dysplasia in children with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy is crucial for alleviating pain and enhancing life quality. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention can prevent future complications, making everyday activities more comfortable and enjoyable for the child.

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support for families dealing with hip dysplasia. Our goal is to help every child achieve the best possible outcomes and lead a comfortable life, regardless of their challenges. Click here to request an appointment today. 

Caring for a child with cerebral palsy involves addressing a range of complex needs to enhance their quality of life. Among these is the crucial aspect of achieving and maintaining spinal balance post-surgery, especially for those with conditions such as scoliosis and other spinal deformities.

The Importance of Spinal Balance

The human body operates optimally when it is properly aligned. For children with cerebral palsy, maintaining this alignment is essential not only for comfort but also for overall function. Surgical interventions to correct spinal deformities focus on achieving a balance that supports the body’s natural structure.

Frontal Plane Balance

Scoliosis, a common spinal issue in adolescence, involves a lateral curvature of the spine that can severely affect posture and mobility. Surgical correction aims to realign the spine to distribute the upper torso weight evenly over the pelvis. This balance in the frontal plane is vital as it ensures that the body can support itself with minimal stress at any given point.

Sagittal Plane Balance

Equally important is the balance in the sagittal plane, which involves the side view of the spine. Children with cerebral palsy, particularly those who are non-ambulatory, often spend a significant amount of time sitting. Proper sagittal alignment helps maintain the natural curve of the lower back, enhancing sitting posture and preventing complications such as pressure ulcers and sitting intolerance..

Post-surgical Outcomes and Care

Following surgery, the focus shifts to rehabilitation and ensuring that the spinal correction is maintained. Physical therapy, custom orthotics, and routine follow-ups play a significant role in postoperative care. These interventions are designed to strengthen the muscles around the spine, support the new alignment, and improve overall mobility.

Enhancing Life Through Balanced Care

Achieving spinal balance through surgical means provides a foundation upon which children with cerebral palsy can improve their mobility and enjoy a better quality of life. It allows them to engage more actively with their environment and participate in daily activities with greater ease and less pain.

A Team Approach to Treating Children with Cerebral Palsy

The journey to achieving and maintaining spinal balance in children with cerebral palsy is a concerted effort involving surgeons, physical therapists, and caregivers. Each plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the surgical benefits are long-lasting and that the child can lead a more comfortable and active life.

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each child. Through advanced surgical techniques and a holistic approach to rehabilitation, we strive to enhance the lives of children with cerebral palsy and empower their families with knowledge and support.

Click here to schedule a consultation today. 

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex neurological condition that affects an individual’s movement, muscle tone, and posture. The common symptoms of CP include difficulty with fine motor skills, muscle stiffness or spasticity, and balance and coordination issues.

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we know the importance of educating individuals and families about this condition. To assist you, we have compiled a comprehensive explanation of the factors that influence the development of cerebral palsy.

Common Causes of Cerebral Palsy

While the exact triggers may vary significantly from one individual to another, they generally fall into several categories that impact brain health. Having a better understanding of what causes cerebral palsy can help identify risk factors and potential prevention measures. If you have a child with CP, understanding the causes can also help you navigate your child’s symptoms and provide necessary care.

Genetic Factors and Cerebral Palsy

Genetic predisposition plays a role in the development of cerebral palsy, although the extent of its influence varies from case to case. Certain genetic mutations and abnormalities associated with CP highlight the intricate interplay between genetics and neurodevelopment. For instance, mutations in genes involved in brain development and function, such as those related to neuronal migration and synaptogenesis, have been linked to an increased risk of CP.

Moreover, genetic factors may interact with environmental influences, further complicating the picture. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of cerebral palsy enhances our grasp of its origins and holds promise for personalized treatment approaches tailored to individual genetic profiles.

Perinatal Factors and Cerebral Palsy

The perinatal period, encompassing the time from conception to shortly after birth, represents a critical window during which various factors can impact fetal brain development and increase the risk of cerebral palsy. Complications during pregnancy, labor, and delivery can contribute to brain injury and neurological impairment in newborns.

Infections during pregnancy, maternal health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, as well as certain obstetric complications like preterm birth or intrauterine growth restriction, have been implicated in the development of cerebral palsy. Additionally, factors such as birth asphyxia, which deprives the baby of oxygen during delivery, can lead to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, which may be what causes cerebral palsy.

Environmental Factors and Cerebral Palsy

While genetics and perinatal factors play pivotal roles, environmental influences also exert a significant impact on the development of cerebral palsy. Exposure to toxins, pollutants, and harmful substances during pregnancy or early childhood may disrupt neurodevelopment and increase the likelihood of CP.

Furthermore, socio-economic factors, including inadequate access to healthcare, nutritional deficiencies, and limited prenatal care, can contribute to disparities in CP prevalence and outcomes among different populations. Addressing environmental risk factors requires a multifaceted approach encompassing public health initiatives, environmental regulations, and community-based interventions.

Brain Abnormalities

Structural abnormalities or malformations of the brain, such as congenital brain anomalies or abnormalities in neuronal migration, can predispose individuals to cerebral palsy. Genetic defects, infections, or environmental factors can cause these abnormalities.

Common brain abnormalities associated with cerebral palsy include periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), which is often seen in premature infants, and cortical malformations such as polymicrogyria. Understanding the specific brain abnormalities present in an individual’s case of CP can aid in treatment planning and management.

Request a Consultation for Cerebral Palsy Support

Children’s Cerebral Palsy understands the challenges and uncertainties of cerebral palsy. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support, tailored treatment plans, and the latest resources to empower affected individuals and their families. Don’t wait to take the first step towards a better understanding of what causes cerebral palsy and how to manage it effectively. Request a consultation with us today, and together, we can explore the best pathways for care and support.