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Cerebral Palsy

Hattiesburg Clinic’s pediatric neurologist provides specialized care for children with cerebral palsy, from diagnosis through ongoing management.
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Cerebral Palsy Overview

Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that affect movement, muscle control, balance and posture. It results from abnormal development or injury to the developing brain and can affect a child’s movement and development in different ways. The type and severity of cerebral palsy vary from child to child.

Developmental concerns, such as delays in reaching motor milestones or differences in movement, may be among the first signs of cerebral palsy. Recognizing these concerns and seeking an evaluation can help identify whether further assessment or treatment is needed.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is classified based on the type of movement problems a child experiences. The main types include:

  • Spastic Cerebral Palsy: The most common type, characterized by stiff or tight muscles and exaggerated reflexes
  • Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: Causes involuntary movements that may make it difficult to control movement and posture
  • Ataxic Cerebral Palsy: Primarily affects balance, coordination and control of movement
  • Mixed Cerebral Palsy: Involves features of more than one type of cerebral palsy

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and children with the same type of cerebral palsy may have different symptoms and abilities.

What Causes Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy occurs when abnormal development or injury affects the developing brain. It may develop before, during or shortly after birth.

Some cases are congenital, meaning the brain injury or abnormal development occurred before or around the time of birth. Others are acquired after birth as a result of an injury or condition affecting the brain.

Potential causes and risk factors can include complications during pregnancy or delivery, premature birth, infections, bleeding in the brain and other conditions that affect brain development or oxygen supply. However, the exact cause of cerebral palsy is not always known.

Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

Signs of cerebral palsy vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some children may show signs during infancy, while others may not be diagnosed until later in childhood.

Early Signs of Cerebral Palsy

  • Delayed motor milestones
  • Poor head control
  • Muscle stiffness or unusual floppiness
  • Difficulty rolling, sitting, crawling or walking
  • Unusual posture or movements
  • Using one side of the body more than the other
  • Legs that cross or become stiff
  • Difficulty with coordination or balance

Other Symptoms and Conditions Associated with Cerebral Palsy

  • Difficulty with speech or communication
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Vision or hearing problems
  • Seizures
  • Developmental or learning difficulties
  • Scoliosis
  • Joint or muscle problems

Not every child with cerebral palsy will experience these symptoms or conditions.

Diagnosing Cerebral Palsy

There is not one test that can diagnose cerebral palsy in every child. Diagnosis involves evaluating a child’s development, movement and neurologic function while considering other possible causes of symptoms. Evaluation may include:

  • Developmental Monitoring and Screening: A child’s developmental milestones may be monitored over time, and developmental screening can help identify concerns that may warrant further evaluation.
  • Pediatric Neurologic Evaluation: The evaluation may include a review of the child’s medical and developmental history, a neurologic examination and assessment of muscle tone, reflexes, posture, movement and developmental progress. The neurologist may also consider other possible causes of the child’s symptoms.
  • Diagnostic Testing: Depending on the child’s symptoms and clinical evaluation, testing such as MRI or other brain imaging, EEG, genetic testing or metabolic testing may be recommended. Not every child will need every test.

Cerebral Palsy Treatment

There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatment can help manage symptoms, support development and improve a child’s ability to function and participate in daily activities. Treatment is based on each child’s needs and may include:

  • Physical Therapy: Supports movement, strength, balance and mobility
  • Occupational Therapy: Helps children develop skills for everyday activities
  • Speech and Feeding Therapy: Addresses communication, swallowing and feeding concerns
  • Medication: Helps manage muscle stiffness, abnormal movements or seizures when needed
  • Orthotics or Braces: Supports movement and positioning

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

Hattiesburg Clinic’s pediatric neurologist provides specialized evaluation and ongoing management for children with cerebral palsy. Care is tailored to each child’s symptoms, developmental needs and overall health. Our pediatric neurology team works closely with the child’s pediatrician and other Hattiesburg Clinic specialists to help coordinate care and address the child’s individual needs as they change over time.

Locations

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Pediatric Neurology
Hattiesburg, MS
Pediatric Neurology
Hattiesburg Clinic -
Lincoln Center
1 Lincoln Pkwy.
Ste. 303
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
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(601) 268-5620
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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