Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy Parent Information

Hemiplegic cerebral palsy is a type of cerebral palsy that occurs when part of the brain is damaged. This damage can happen at any time before, during or after birth. The word "hemiplegia" refers to the condition in which one side of the body is paralyzed to some degree.

History

• Cerebral palsy, in general, was first documented in the late 1860s. It was then referred to as "Little's disease," named after the English doctor who first discovered the somewhat unusual symptoms.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of the disease vary, from child to child. Things to watch for include: seizures, muscle weakness or stiffness (on either the left or right side), trouble sitting up or walking, and problems with fine motor skills.

Treatment

• Like the symptoms, treatments for HCP vary as well. Surgery, occupational therapy, physical therapy and medications are just a few possible options.

Prevention/Solution

• Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the onset of cerebral palsy. Currently, there is no cure. However, new strides in research continue to bring doctors one step closer to a world free from cerebral palsy.

Famous Ties

• A cerebral palsy diagnoses need not hinder dreams of greatness. Several notable television personalities, authors, artists and educators have some form of cerebral palsy. They include: Stephen Hawking, Thomas Ritter, Chris Fonseca, Christy Brown and Geri Jewell.