Ataxic Cerebral Palsy-Its Characteristics

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy refers to a group of permanent brain injuries that affect normal muscle coordination and movement. It is life-long, non-progressive neurological disorder that disrupts the communication between the brain and the muscles. This condition is characterized by weakness, paralysis and motor dysfunction. Children suffering from cerebral palsy have limited motor skills and learning disabilities.

Cause of Cerebral Palsy

Though the exact cause of the disease is unknown, all cases of cerebral palsy are attributed to brain damage. This could possibly occur in the mother's womb, during or after birth. Premature babies are at a greater risk of acquiring this disorder. Conditions like asphyxia, hypoxia of the brain and infections such as meningitis and encephalitis are also causative factors. Seizures and intraventricular hemorrhages can lead to extensive brain damage.

Ataxic Cerebral Palsy

There are chiefly three types of cerebral palsy, namely: Spastic, Ataxic, Athetoid and Mixed cerebral palsy. Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type. Almost 10 percent of cerebral palsy cases suffer from Ataxic cerebral palsy. In the Ataxic type of cerebral palsy, the muscles become very weak. Patients often experience instability and unsteadiness. Poor balance and unsteady walking characterize these patients. Such patients walk with their feet widely spaced. Low muscle tone and poor coordination is observed. This rare form of cerebral palsy affects depth perception and creates difficulty in holding small objects. Such children take longer time to complete normal tasks.

Treatment

Individual lines of treatment differ, as no two cases of cerebral palsy are the same. A therapeutic exercise program should be a part of the treatment. As therapy requires a lot of time commitment, it is advised that parents and caretakers also take active part in it. Physical therapy helps develop the large muscles in the body. This improves movement and balance. Speech and language therapy helps control the jaw and mouth muscles. Drugs can help prevent seizures. It is equally necessary to build the child's self-esteem for better progress. Therapy for speech, learning, social and emotional development can help the child achieve his/her maximum potential.

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