Word parts
What it means
The most common physical disability of childhood. The brain injury does not get worse, but its effects change as the child grows. Types include spastic (stiff, tight muscles, the most common), dyskinetic (uncontrolled movements) and ataxic (poor balance and coordination). Some children also have seizures, intellectual disability, vision, hearing or swallowing problems. Preterm birth and low birth weight raise the risk.
For the nurse
Care focuses on safety, nutrition and swallowing (risk of aspiration), mobility and preventing contractures, and helping the child do as much as possible. Work with physical, occupational and speech therapy and support the family.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | CP |
|---|---|
| Spanish | parálisis cerebral |
Related terms
seizure
A sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that changes movement, feeling, behavior or awareness.
ataxia
Loss of control and coordination of body movements, so that movements are clumsy and unsteady.
contracture
A lasting shortening and tightening of muscle, tendon, skin or joint tissue that keeps a joint from moving through its full range.
developmental milestone
A skill that most children can do by a certain age, such as smiling, sitting, walking or saying words.