Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQs

I often get asked about my disability and I reply I have Cerebral Palsy, which effects my movement,

What causes CP?

Any damage to the developing brain, whether caused by genetic or developmental disorders, injury or disease, may produce CP.

During Pregnancy anything which tends to produce a low birth weight baby will increase the likelihood of CP. Factors during pregnancy which may cause CP include:

Multiple births (twins or triplets)
A damaged placenta which may interfere with fetal growth Infections
Poor nutrition
Exposure to toxic substance, including nicotine and alcohol, Maternal diabetes, hyperthyroidism or high blood pressure.
Premature dilation of the cervix leading to premature delivery Biochemical genetic disorders
Chance malformations of the developing brain
During Labour
Premature delivery
Abnormal positioning of the baby (such as breech or transverse lie) which makes delivery difficult
Rupture of the amniotic membranes leading to fetal infection

In Early Childhood CP can occur if a young child suffers brain damage due to:

Infections such as meningitis
Brain hemorrhages
Head injury following falls, car accidents or abuse
A lack of oxygen (asphyxia) due to accidents such as drowning
Seizures

What are some early signs of CP?

Poor head control after 3 months of age
Increased muscle tone (muscle stiffness)
Decreased muscle tone (floppy or limp muscles)
Arching of the back
Inability to sit up by 8 months
Favoring one side of the body
Increased irritability
Feeding problems
Continuous fisting of the hands
Scissoring of the legs
Pointing toes
Tremors or seizures
exaggerated startle reflex