“Cerebral Palsy (CP) – A Complete Guide for Parents”

Cerebral Palsy (CP) – A Complete Guide for Parents

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological condition that affects a child’s movement, muscle coordination, and posture. It occurs due to brain damage before, during, or after birth. CP is not a disease; it is a condition that requires long-term care and therapy.

Causes of Cerebral Palsy

The most common causes of CP include:

✅ Lack of oxygen during birth (birth asphyxia)

✅ Premature birth or low birth weight

✅ Infections during pregnancy (such as rubella, toxoplasmosis)

✅ Brain injury or infections (like meningitis) in early childhood

✅ Genetic factors (though rare)

Signs and Symptoms of CP in Children

Every CP child is different, but common signs include:

🔹 Delayed milestones (not holding the neck, not sitting, not walking on time)

🔹 Muscle stiffness or weakness

🔹 Poor balance and coordination

🔹 Involuntary movements or tremors

🔹 Difficulty in swallowing, chewing, or speaking in some cases

CP can range from mild to severe, but early intervention and physiotherapy can significantly improve a child’s life.

Can a CP Child Walk?

Yes, but physiotherapy is essential. Without physiotherapy, CP children may never develop proper mobility. Physiotherapy helps:

✔ Strengthen muscles and improve flexibility

✔ Improve balance and coordination

✔ Train the child to sit, stand, and walk with support

✔ Prevent joint deformities and contractures

Treatment is a long-term process, and patience is key. There is no overnight cure, but consistent effort brings results.

Parental Guidance – What NOT to Do!

✅ Avoid unnecessary massage (مالش) on CP children. Many traditional methods can harm their weak muscles and joints. Only follow a professional physiotherapist’s advice.

✅ Do not use random home remedies or unprescribed medicines. Many herbal treatments can do more harm than good. Always consult a specialist before trying anything.

✅ Stay connected with a professional. CP treatment requires continuous physiotherapy, which takes time but definitely brings improvement if done properly.

✅ Seizures (جھٹکے) must be controlled first! The more seizures a child experiences, the more their brain gets affected. Follow these steps:

1️⃣ Give prescribed medicines regularly. Never skip doses.

2️⃣ Do not stop medicine without the doctor’s recommendation.

3️⃣ Set a proper medicine routine. If you give medicine at 8 AM, ensure it is given at 8 AM every day. Similarly, if night medicine is at 8 PM, keep the same schedule daily.

4️⃣ Use mobile alarms to remind you of medicine timings.

✅ Always keep an extra syrup or medicine bottle at home. Running out of medication can be risky. Make sure you always have a backup.

CP Children and Weak Immunity

Many CP children have low immunity, making them prone to:

⚠ Chest infections (most common issue)

⚠ Pneumonia (if left untreated, it can be life-threatening)

If your child has cough, phlegm buildup, or breathing difficulties, take immediate action:

✔ Perform chest physiotherapy to clear mucus.

✔ Use normal saline nebulization to help with congestion.

✔ Consult a pediatric specialist as soon as possible.

Need Help? Watch My Free Exercise Videos!

If you need guidance, I have uploaded detailed exercise videos on my social media platforms. Visit Dr. Bilal Hanif’s channel on:

🔹 YouTube: Dr. Bilal Hanif YouTube

🔹 Facebook: Dr. Bilal Hanif Facebook

🔹 Instagram: Dr. Bilal Hanif Instagram

🔹 TikTok: Dr. Bilal Hanif TikTok

These videos provide step-by-step instructions to help you do exercises at home.

Contact for More Guidance

📞 WhatsApp: +92 341 7539691

📧 Email: HealthCheckPhysio@gmail.com

Your child’s journey requires patience, hard work, and continuous effort. Stay committed, and never lose hope!

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