Overview of Cerebral Palsy
In cerebral palsy, faulty development or damage to motor areas in the brain
impair the body's ability to control movement and posture. This results in a
number of chronic neurological disorders. Cerebral palsy is usually associated
with events that occur before or during birth, but may be acquired during the
first few months or years of life as the result of head trauma or infection.
Cerebral palsy is neither contagious nor inherited, nor is it progressive.
The symptoms of cerebral palsy (CP) differ from person to person and change as
the child's nervous system matures.
Some people with severe CP are completely disabled and require lifelong care,
while others display only slight awkwardness and need no special assistance.
Complications associated with CP include learning disabilities, gastrointestinal
dysfunction, tooth decay (dental caries), sensory deficits, and seizures.
Types of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is classified as spastic, athetoid, ataxic, or mixed.
These classifications reflect the type of movement disturbance displayed by the
patient.
Spastic CP–stiff, permanently contracted muscles; 50 to 75 percent of
cases
Athetoid CP (also called dyskinetic cerebral palsy)–slow, uncontrolled,
writhing movements; 10 to 20 percent of cases
Ataxic CP–poor coordination, balance, and depth perception; 5 to 10 percent
of cases
Mixed CP–two or more types present; about 10 percent of cases (percentage may
be higher)
Incidence of Cerebral
Palsy
Approximately 1 million people in the United States have CP. Improvements in
prenatal, pediatric, and intensive care over the past 30 years have enabled more
critically premature and frail babies to survive infancy. Many of these
surviving children suffer developmental disorders and neurological damage.
Cerebral Palsy
2015年5月31日星期日
Symptoms of Cerebral palsy In Adults
Cerebral palsy is the result of damaged neurological development in the motor
areas of the brain. This weakens the body's ability to control movement, but
does not directly affect intelligence. Some people with cerebral palsy are
mentally retarded or have learning disabilities and some do not. The condition
isn't contagious or inherited, and the symptoms can differ slightly from person
to person. While it usually affects the ability to move voluntarily, you may
also suffer symptoms of involuntary movement of the hands or arms. Some people
will suffer from a severe form while others will have very mild symptoms.
According to Neurology Channel the symptoms of cerebral palsy can be simple, such as having difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or using a scissors. Or the symptoms can be more severe, resulting in an inability to walk or maintain balance. These symptoms are the result of the same spastic muscle control but are on a continuum of the very mild to the very severe. The most common type of cerebral palsy is spastic cerebral palsy, which refers to the hallmark symptom of spasticity in the muscles. Spasticity refers to increased muscle tone that can cause the muscles to have a permanent stiffness and will lead to contractures of the arms and legs as a person grows through adulthood. The person will have difficulty controlling the muscles that are affected by the spasticity, and the muscles will appear to be "stiff" if the joint is moved passively. This stiffness in the muscles can result in an inability to walk, stand, write or eat.
Another symptom of a different form of cerebral palsy is athetoid movements. These are movements or motions of the arms, legs, neck or face that are involuntary. According to the Neurology Channel, if you have athetoid movements your legs, arms or neck will have slow, writhing movements that are not controllable. The muscles of the face and tongue can also be affected. This causes grimacing and drooling as well as trouble eating and swallowing. You may require assistance with eating to prevent starvation.
Post-impairment syndrome is a combination of symptoms that affect adults with cerebral palsy. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, this combination includes fatigue, pain, arthritis and weakness that is often a part of daily life. This symptom is due to the muscle abnormalities and bony changes that happen as you age with cerebral palsy. You can use three to five times more energy each day than an able-bodied person just to complete your daily living activities. This extra expenditure of energy combined with the spasticity and extra wear on the joints is a hallmark symptom of adults who suffer from cerebral palsy.
According to Neurology Channel the symptoms of cerebral palsy can be simple, such as having difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or using a scissors. Or the symptoms can be more severe, resulting in an inability to walk or maintain balance. These symptoms are the result of the same spastic muscle control but are on a continuum of the very mild to the very severe. The most common type of cerebral palsy is spastic cerebral palsy, which refers to the hallmark symptom of spasticity in the muscles. Spasticity refers to increased muscle tone that can cause the muscles to have a permanent stiffness and will lead to contractures of the arms and legs as a person grows through adulthood. The person will have difficulty controlling the muscles that are affected by the spasticity, and the muscles will appear to be "stiff" if the joint is moved passively. This stiffness in the muscles can result in an inability to walk, stand, write or eat.
Another symptom of a different form of cerebral palsy is athetoid movements. These are movements or motions of the arms, legs, neck or face that are involuntary. According to the Neurology Channel, if you have athetoid movements your legs, arms or neck will have slow, writhing movements that are not controllable. The muscles of the face and tongue can also be affected. This causes grimacing and drooling as well as trouble eating and swallowing. You may require assistance with eating to prevent starvation.
Post-impairment syndrome is a combination of symptoms that affect adults with cerebral palsy. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, this combination includes fatigue, pain, arthritis and weakness that is often a part of daily life. This symptom is due to the muscle abnormalities and bony changes that happen as you age with cerebral palsy. You can use three to five times more energy each day than an able-bodied person just to complete your daily living activities. This extra expenditure of energy combined with the spasticity and extra wear on the joints is a hallmark symptom of adults who suffer from cerebral palsy.
Is Chinese Herbs Cure Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy covers a wide spectrum of brain-related motor problems.
Cerebral injuries that occur at or soon after birth may result in muscular or
nerve dysfunction, which can present in the form of paralysis in one or more
area of the body. Individuals may experience a range of severity with this
non-progressive lifelong condition. Conventional treatments and herbal therapies
alike show great promise for Cerebral palsy patients, especially if the
diagnosis takes place early on. Several herbs have therapeutic uses in cerebral
palsy.
Chinese Herbs can be used to nourish the brain, improve motor control, and increase mental acuity. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that are similar to hormones. They are a major part of the central nervous system that work not only in the brain, but throughout the entire body. Ginkgo biloba, Panax and Siberian ginseng can increase the activity of these neurotransmitters for improved muscle functions. These herbs also have other helpful uses in cases of cerebral palsy.
Free radicals are often prevalent in cases of cerebral palsy. Antioxidant rich herbs can help counteract and prevent further cell damage caused by their presence. Rosemary, ginger, and ginkgo biloba are among those that have been cited for their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are also helpful in assisting the body with proper oxygen utilization, which is very important for proper brain, nerve and muscle function.
Ginger may also be used to improve circulation to the extremities. For improved circulation throughout the entire body, prickly ash is another good option. Again we see Ginkgo as useful for improved circulatory function. The better circulation of blood, the more optimal oxygen levels and vital nutrients will be in the brain and nerve cells.
Additional Supplementation
Various nutrients work to provide improved muscle tone. Magnesium, vitamin C and thiamine are not always consumed in adequate amounts in today's modern diets, so supplementation may be helpful. Multivitamins with added minerals are best in organic, whole food forms. Adequate protein intake is also important because of the amino acids provided for proper muscle growth.
Chinese Herbs can be used to nourish the brain, improve motor control, and increase mental acuity. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that are similar to hormones. They are a major part of the central nervous system that work not only in the brain, but throughout the entire body. Ginkgo biloba, Panax and Siberian ginseng can increase the activity of these neurotransmitters for improved muscle functions. These herbs also have other helpful uses in cases of cerebral palsy.
Free radicals are often prevalent in cases of cerebral palsy. Antioxidant rich herbs can help counteract and prevent further cell damage caused by their presence. Rosemary, ginger, and ginkgo biloba are among those that have been cited for their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are also helpful in assisting the body with proper oxygen utilization, which is very important for proper brain, nerve and muscle function.
Ginger may also be used to improve circulation to the extremities. For improved circulation throughout the entire body, prickly ash is another good option. Again we see Ginkgo as useful for improved circulatory function. The better circulation of blood, the more optimal oxygen levels and vital nutrients will be in the brain and nerve cells.
Additional Supplementation
Various nutrients work to provide improved muscle tone. Magnesium, vitamin C and thiamine are not always consumed in adequate amounts in today's modern diets, so supplementation may be helpful. Multivitamins with added minerals are best in organic, whole food forms. Adequate protein intake is also important because of the amino acids provided for proper muscle growth.
2015年5月23日星期六
Natural options treatment for Children Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) consists of a heterogeneous group of permanent,
nonprogressive clinical syndromes that are characterized by motor and postural
dysfunction. These conditions, which range in severity, are due to abnormalities
of the developing brain resulting from a variety of causes. Although the
disorder itself is not progressive, the appearance of neuropathologic lesions
and their clinical expression may change over time as the brain matures.
Traditional medical techniques (physiotherapy, bracing, and orthopedic musculoskeletal surgery) remain the mainstay of treatment strategies at this time. Limited research indicates acupuncture, biofeedback, may offer slight benefits.
The addition of an exercise training program to the standard care of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy improves their physical fitness and quality of life.
There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but a range of treatments are available to help treat many of the symptoms.
Treatment for cerebral palsy will usually involve a team of health professionals with different areas of expertise. The team may include:
a paediatrician
a health visitor
a social worker
a physiotherapist, who helps with movement and co-ordination
an orthotist, who specialises in the use of devices (orthoses) to correct deformities and support weakened joints
a speech and language therapist
an occupational therapist, who helps with the skills and abilities needed for daily activities, such as washing or dressing
a teacher specialising in helping children with visual impairment
an educational psychologist, who specialises in helping people with learning difficulties
The care team will help draw up an individual care plan to address any needs or problems your child has. The plan will be continually reassessed as your child gets older and their needs change.
You and your child will also be assigned a key worker, who will be the first point of contact between you and the various support services available. When your child is young, the key worker is likely to be a health visitor. As your child gets older and their needs become more complex, the key worker is likely to be a social worker.
There is no single treatment plan for a child with cerebral palsy. Instead, there are a wide range of treatments available, which are designed to improve your child's symptoms and let them be as independent as possible. Some of the main treatments are outlined below.
Traditional medical techniques (physiotherapy, bracing, and orthopedic musculoskeletal surgery) remain the mainstay of treatment strategies at this time. Limited research indicates acupuncture, biofeedback, may offer slight benefits.
The addition of an exercise training program to the standard care of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy improves their physical fitness and quality of life.
There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but a range of treatments are available to help treat many of the symptoms.
Treatment for cerebral palsy will usually involve a team of health professionals with different areas of expertise. The team may include:
a paediatrician
a health visitor
a social worker
a physiotherapist, who helps with movement and co-ordination
an orthotist, who specialises in the use of devices (orthoses) to correct deformities and support weakened joints
a speech and language therapist
an occupational therapist, who helps with the skills and abilities needed for daily activities, such as washing or dressing
a teacher specialising in helping children with visual impairment
an educational psychologist, who specialises in helping people with learning difficulties
The care team will help draw up an individual care plan to address any needs or problems your child has. The plan will be continually reassessed as your child gets older and their needs change.
You and your child will also be assigned a key worker, who will be the first point of contact between you and the various support services available. When your child is young, the key worker is likely to be a health visitor. As your child gets older and their needs become more complex, the key worker is likely to be a social worker.
There is no single treatment plan for a child with cerebral palsy. Instead, there are a wide range of treatments available, which are designed to improve your child's symptoms and let them be as independent as possible. Some of the main treatments are outlined below.
2015年5月18日星期一
Life expectancy Of Spinal Cord Injury
Life expectancy in Spinal Cord Injury is significantly reduced from normal.
The magnitude of the reduction depends on level and grade. As would be expected,
life expectancy is less if the injury is complete and/or the neurological level
is higher.
For some examples, see Table 4 from Strauss et al. which is reproduced below. It applies to a 25 year-old male. As may be seen, in the most severe case (complete injury at levels C1 � C3), the life expectancy is 50% of normal. For grade D injuries (inimal neurological deficit), the estimate is 88% of normal. For females, or for persons older than 25, the percentage of normal life expectancy is similar, to a rough approximation, though the percentage tends to be somewhat smaller at older ages.
Persons whose Spinal Cord Injury occurred in childhood have lower life expectancies than those injured in adulthood, other factors being equal.
Persons whose Spinal Cord Injury occurred in childhood have lower life expectancies than those injured in adulthood, other factors being equal.
Secular trends in life expectancy after Spinal Cord Injury. It seems to be widely believed that life expectancy after SCI has improved dramatically in recent decades. A careful reading of the research literature5,7,9 shows, however, that the pattern is more complex than this. There has been a major improvement in survival during the critical first few years after the injury, mortality rates having fallen by some 50% in recent decades. For the subsequent period, however, there has been little if any improvements in survival.
Smoking and Spinal Cord Injury. The research literature indicates that smoking is especially deleterious for persons with Spinal Cord Injury.
The same appears to be true of persons with SCI who are morbidly obese.
It has been suggested that economic factors play a major role in life expectancy of persons with Spinal Cord Injury.More recent work,1 however, indicates that this is not the case, except that persons with SCI in the most unfavorable economic category fare significantly worse than the others.
For some examples, see Table 4 from Strauss et al. which is reproduced below. It applies to a 25 year-old male. As may be seen, in the most severe case (complete injury at levels C1 � C3), the life expectancy is 50% of normal. For grade D injuries (inimal neurological deficit), the estimate is 88% of normal. For females, or for persons older than 25, the percentage of normal life expectancy is similar, to a rough approximation, though the percentage tends to be somewhat smaller at older ages.
Persons whose Spinal Cord Injury occurred in childhood have lower life expectancies than those injured in adulthood, other factors being equal.
Persons whose Spinal Cord Injury occurred in childhood have lower life expectancies than those injured in adulthood, other factors being equal.
Secular trends in life expectancy after Spinal Cord Injury. It seems to be widely believed that life expectancy after SCI has improved dramatically in recent decades. A careful reading of the research literature5,7,9 shows, however, that the pattern is more complex than this. There has been a major improvement in survival during the critical first few years after the injury, mortality rates having fallen by some 50% in recent decades. For the subsequent period, however, there has been little if any improvements in survival.
Smoking and Spinal Cord Injury. The research literature indicates that smoking is especially deleterious for persons with Spinal Cord Injury.
The same appears to be true of persons with SCI who are morbidly obese.
It has been suggested that economic factors play a major role in life expectancy of persons with Spinal Cord Injury.More recent work,1 however, indicates that this is not the case, except that persons with SCI in the most unfavorable economic category fare significantly worse than the others.
Causes & Risk factors And Treatment Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is damage to any part of the spinal cord, the bundle
of nerves that runs from the brain down the vertebral column, or disease.
Spinal cord injuries result from damage to the vertebrae, ligaments or disks of the spinal column or to the spinal cord itself.
Common causes of spinal cord injury
The most common causes of spinal cord injuries in the United States are:
Motor vehicle accidents. Auto and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for more than 35 percent of new spinal cord injuries each year.
Falls. Spinal cord injury after age 65 is most often caused by a fall. Overall, falls cause more than one-quarter of spinal cord injuries.
Acts of violence. Around 15 percent of spinal cord injuries result from violent encounters, often involving gunshot and knife wounds, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.
Sports and recreation injuries. Athletic activities, such as impact sports and diving in shallow water, cause about 9 percent of spinal cord injuries.
Alcohol. Alcohol use is a factor in about 1 out of every 4 spinal cord injuries.
Diseases. Cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis and inflammation of the spinal cord also can cause spinal cord injuries.
Risk factors For Spinal Cord Injury
Although a spinal cord injury is usually the result of an accident and can happen to anyone, certain factors may predispose you to a higher risk of sustaining a spinal cord injury, including:
Being male. Spinal cord injuries affect a disproportionate amount of men. In fact, females account for only about 20 percent of traumatic spinal cord injuries in the United States.
Being between the ages of 16 and 30. You're most likely to suffer a traumatic spinal cord injury if you're between the ages of 16 and 30.
Being older than 65. Falls cause most injuries in older adults.
Engaging in risky behavior. Diving into too-shallow water or playing sports without wearing the proper safety gear or taking proper precautions can lead to spinal cord injuries. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries for people under 65.
Having a bone or joint disorder. A relatively minor injury can cause a spinal cord injury if you have another disorder that affects your bones or joints, such as arthritis or osteoporosis.
Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury
Maintaining stability of the spine and immediate referral to the appropriate local severe trauma service are essential for patients with a possible cervical spine fracture.
Early (acute) stages of treatment
In the emergency room, doctors focus on:
Maintaining your ability to breathe
Preventing shock
Immobilizing your neck to prevent further spinal cord damage
Avoiding possible complications, such as stool or urine retention, respiratory or cardiovascular difficulty and formation of deep vein blood clots in the extremities
You may be sedated so that you don't move and sustain more damage while undergoing diagnostic tests for spinal cord injury.
If you do have a spinal cord injury, you'll usually be admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment. You may even be transferred to a regional spine injury center that has a team of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, spinal cord medicine specialists, psychologists, nurses, therapists and social workers with expertise in spinal cord injury.
Medications. Intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone (A-Methapred, Solu-Medrol) is a treatment option for an acute spinal cord injury. If methylprednisolone is given within eight hours of injury, some people experience mild improvement.
It appears to work by reducing damage to nerve cells and decreasing inflammation near the site of injury. However, it's not a cure for a spinal cord injury.
Immobilization. You may need traction to stabilize your spine, to bring the spine into proper alignment or both. In some cases, a rigid neck collar may work. A special bed also may help immobilize your body.
Surgery. Often surgery is necessary to remove fragments of bones, foreign objects, herniated disks or fractured vertebrae that appear to be compressing the spine. Surgery may also be needed to stabilize the spine to prevent future pain or deformity.
Experimental treatments. Scientists are trying to figure out ways to stop cell death, control inflammation and promote nerve regeneration. Ask your doctor about the availability of such treatments.
Ongoing care
After the initial injury or disease stabilizes, doctors turn their attention to preventing secondary problems that may arise, such as deconditioning, muscle contractures, pressure ulcers, bowel and bladder issues, respiratory infections and blood clots.
The length of your hospitalization depends on your condition and the medical issues you're facing. Once you're well enough to participate in therapies and treatment, you may transfer to a rehabilitation facility.
Rehabilitation of Spinal Cord Injury
Rehabilitation team members will begin to work with you while you're in the early stages of recovery. Your team may include a physical therapist, occupational therapist, rehabilitation nurse, rehabilitation psychologist, social worker, dietitian, recreation therapist and a doctor who specializes in physical medicine (physiatrist) or spinal cord injuries.
During the initial stages of rehabilitation, therapists usually emphasize maintenance and strengthening of existing muscle function, redeveloping fine motor skills and learning adaptive techniques to accomplish day-to-day tasks.
You'll be educated on the effects of a spinal cord injury and how to prevent complications, and you'll be given advice on rebuilding your life and increasing your quality of life.
You'll be taught many new skills, and you'll use equipment and technology that can help you live on your own as much as possible. You'll be encouraged to resume your favorite hobbies, participate in social and fitness activities and return to school or the workplace.
Spinal cord injuries result from damage to the vertebrae, ligaments or disks of the spinal column or to the spinal cord itself.
The most common causes of spinal cord injuries in the United States are:
Motor vehicle accidents. Auto and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for more than 35 percent of new spinal cord injuries each year.
Falls. Spinal cord injury after age 65 is most often caused by a fall. Overall, falls cause more than one-quarter of spinal cord injuries.
Acts of violence. Around 15 percent of spinal cord injuries result from violent encounters, often involving gunshot and knife wounds, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.
Sports and recreation injuries. Athletic activities, such as impact sports and diving in shallow water, cause about 9 percent of spinal cord injuries.
Alcohol. Alcohol use is a factor in about 1 out of every 4 spinal cord injuries.
Diseases. Cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis and inflammation of the spinal cord also can cause spinal cord injuries.
Risk factors For Spinal Cord Injury
Although a spinal cord injury is usually the result of an accident and can happen to anyone, certain factors may predispose you to a higher risk of sustaining a spinal cord injury, including:
Being male. Spinal cord injuries affect a disproportionate amount of men. In fact, females account for only about 20 percent of traumatic spinal cord injuries in the United States.
Being between the ages of 16 and 30. You're most likely to suffer a traumatic spinal cord injury if you're between the ages of 16 and 30.
Being older than 65. Falls cause most injuries in older adults.
Engaging in risky behavior. Diving into too-shallow water or playing sports without wearing the proper safety gear or taking proper precautions can lead to spinal cord injuries. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries for people under 65.
Having a bone or joint disorder. A relatively minor injury can cause a spinal cord injury if you have another disorder that affects your bones or joints, such as arthritis or osteoporosis.
Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury
Maintaining stability of the spine and immediate referral to the appropriate local severe trauma service are essential for patients with a possible cervical spine fracture.
Early (acute) stages of treatment
In the emergency room, doctors focus on:
Maintaining your ability to breathe
Preventing shock
Immobilizing your neck to prevent further spinal cord damage
Avoiding possible complications, such as stool or urine retention, respiratory or cardiovascular difficulty and formation of deep vein blood clots in the extremities
You may be sedated so that you don't move and sustain more damage while undergoing diagnostic tests for spinal cord injury.
If you do have a spinal cord injury, you'll usually be admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment. You may even be transferred to a regional spine injury center that has a team of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, spinal cord medicine specialists, psychologists, nurses, therapists and social workers with expertise in spinal cord injury.
Medications. Intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone (A-Methapred, Solu-Medrol) is a treatment option for an acute spinal cord injury. If methylprednisolone is given within eight hours of injury, some people experience mild improvement.
It appears to work by reducing damage to nerve cells and decreasing inflammation near the site of injury. However, it's not a cure for a spinal cord injury.
Immobilization. You may need traction to stabilize your spine, to bring the spine into proper alignment or both. In some cases, a rigid neck collar may work. A special bed also may help immobilize your body.
Surgery. Often surgery is necessary to remove fragments of bones, foreign objects, herniated disks or fractured vertebrae that appear to be compressing the spine. Surgery may also be needed to stabilize the spine to prevent future pain or deformity.
Experimental treatments. Scientists are trying to figure out ways to stop cell death, control inflammation and promote nerve regeneration. Ask your doctor about the availability of such treatments.
Ongoing care
After the initial injury or disease stabilizes, doctors turn their attention to preventing secondary problems that may arise, such as deconditioning, muscle contractures, pressure ulcers, bowel and bladder issues, respiratory infections and blood clots.
The length of your hospitalization depends on your condition and the medical issues you're facing. Once you're well enough to participate in therapies and treatment, you may transfer to a rehabilitation facility.
Rehabilitation of Spinal Cord Injury
Rehabilitation team members will begin to work with you while you're in the early stages of recovery. Your team may include a physical therapist, occupational therapist, rehabilitation nurse, rehabilitation psychologist, social worker, dietitian, recreation therapist and a doctor who specializes in physical medicine (physiatrist) or spinal cord injuries.
During the initial stages of rehabilitation, therapists usually emphasize maintenance and strengthening of existing muscle function, redeveloping fine motor skills and learning adaptive techniques to accomplish day-to-day tasks.
You'll be educated on the effects of a spinal cord injury and how to prevent complications, and you'll be given advice on rebuilding your life and increasing your quality of life.
You'll be taught many new skills, and you'll use equipment and technology that can help you live on your own as much as possible. You'll be encouraged to resume your favorite hobbies, participate in social and fitness activities and return to school or the workplace.
2015年5月15日星期五
Stem Cell Therapy For Cerebral Palsy
Stem cell therapy is a relatively new form of treatment (still in it’s
research stage) for cerebral palsy (CP). In fact, there are currently only two
facilities in the United States that perform research trials on stem cell
therapy and CP.
Can Stem Cell Therapy Treat Infants with Cerebral Palsy?
Currently, stem cell therapy cannot treat infants nor anyone else who lives with CP, as research into stem cell therapy is still in the laboratory and clinical trial phase. Experts speculate that once the research is out of its clinical trial stages, patients will probably need accompanying forms of treatment as well, such as physical therapy and physiotherapy, which can complement the effectiveness of stem cell therapy.
Before any type of treatment can happen, however, there must be a established proof through a series of research, that shows stem cell therapy will be beneficial for babies with CP.
According to The Stem Cell Institute, stems cells from human umbilical cord tissue (HUC) may be the best treatment option for those with CP. Since these types of stems are harvested and donated, they generally go through rigorous screenings for any viruses and bacteria.
Can Stem Cell Therapy Treat Infants with Cerebral Palsy?
Currently, stem cell therapy cannot treat infants nor anyone else who lives with CP, as research into stem cell therapy is still in the laboratory and clinical trial phase. Experts speculate that once the research is out of its clinical trial stages, patients will probably need accompanying forms of treatment as well, such as physical therapy and physiotherapy, which can complement the effectiveness of stem cell therapy.
Before any type of treatment can happen, however, there must be a established proof through a series of research, that shows stem cell therapy will be beneficial for babies with CP.
According to The Stem Cell Institute, stems cells from human umbilical cord tissue (HUC) may be the best treatment option for those with CP. Since these types of stems are harvested and donated, they generally go through rigorous screenings for any viruses and bacteria.
2015年5月14日星期四
Causes And Risk Factors of Cerebral Palsy
In some cases, cerebral palsy will develop as a result of unpreventable
factors, such as genetic dispositions or fetal development disorders. In fact,
many instances of cerebral palsy have unidentifiable causes.
However, in other cases, cerebral palsy may occur following medical mistakes made before, during or after a baby's birth. Malpractice that can contribute to a case of cerebral palsy includes failing to promptly detect and appropriately treat:
an infant's lack of oxygen
exposure to toxins (such as lead or mercury)
infant signs of distress (including changes in heart rate)
infant infections (including meningitis)
jaundice in newborns
maternal infections (including syphilis, measles or chicken pox)
maternal signs of distress (such as high blood pressure, blood poisoning or elevated heart rates)
prolapsed cord (a condition in which the umbilical cord wraps around a baby's neck and cuts off his air supply)
seizures (in either the pregnant mother or the newborn)
Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy
Medical mistakes are most likely to occur when other labor and delivery complications, such as the following, arise:
breech birth (babies are delivered feet first, rather than head first)
low birth weight
multiple births
premature birth
Other medical mistakes that can cause cerebral palsy include:
excessive use of vacuum extraction (during delivery)
improper use of forceps (during delivery)
failure to perform essential C-sections (when signs of fetal or maternal distress indicate the procedure is necessary)
In any of the above-listed events, babies are highly likely to suffer brain damage that results in cerebral palsy. Additionally, injured newborns and their families may be entitled to compensation by pursuing a cerebral palsy lawsuit.
However, in other cases, cerebral palsy may occur following medical mistakes made before, during or after a baby's birth. Malpractice that can contribute to a case of cerebral palsy includes failing to promptly detect and appropriately treat:
an infant's lack of oxygen
exposure to toxins (such as lead or mercury)
infant signs of distress (including changes in heart rate)
infant infections (including meningitis)
jaundice in newborns
maternal infections (including syphilis, measles or chicken pox)
maternal signs of distress (such as high blood pressure, blood poisoning or elevated heart rates)
prolapsed cord (a condition in which the umbilical cord wraps around a baby's neck and cuts off his air supply)
seizures (in either the pregnant mother or the newborn)
Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy
Medical mistakes are most likely to occur when other labor and delivery complications, such as the following, arise:
breech birth (babies are delivered feet first, rather than head first)
low birth weight
multiple births
premature birth
Other medical mistakes that can cause cerebral palsy include:
excessive use of vacuum extraction (during delivery)
improper use of forceps (during delivery)
failure to perform essential C-sections (when signs of fetal or maternal distress indicate the procedure is necessary)
In any of the above-listed events, babies are highly likely to suffer brain damage that results in cerebral palsy. Additionally, injured newborns and their families may be entitled to compensation by pursuing a cerebral palsy lawsuit.
2015年5月13日星期三
Acupuncture For Cerebral Palsy
What is Acupuncture
In its most traditional form, acupuncture is performed by penetrating the skin of certain points of the body with thin, small needles. Chinese medicine indicates that by penetrating certain points of the body, it affects the flow of qi, or life force, through the body’s channels, referred to as meridians.
The premise of acupuncture is based on a theory that all the body’s functions are dictated by the qi, and if there are disruptions to the energy’s flow, it can cause pain. By placing the needles in anatomical points, the flow is opened, restored or enhanced.
The qi includes five cardinal functions:
Actuation, or the processes of the body that encourage circulation
Warming, or the body’s limbs
Containment, or body fluids
Defense, against pathogenic or spiritual invaders
Transformation, or food, drink and breathing to increase flow into the body’s channels
The body’s 12 meridians are located throughout the body; eight are considered “extraordinary,” or essential to the qi’s existence. Meridians also represent the locations that are considered points for needle insertion during therapy.
However, the qi has no known physiological counterpart; and modern practitioners typically focus on pressure points on the head, neck, legs and hands. It is not known how many pressure points – or clusters of nerves or sensitive spots – a human has, though practitioners believe that it is in the hundreds.
Acupuncture is considered minimally invasive; the needles, tiny in circumference, are never inserted deeply into skin.
Some of the conditions acupuncture practitioners say can be helped through the therapy include:
Muscle pain and tightness
Anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Depression
Cancer
Drug dependence
Fibromyalgia
Arthritis
Bell’s palsy
Autism
Acupuncture for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Part of having cerebral palsy means finding new ways to cope with various physical symptoms, some of which acupuncture is believed to remedy.
The most comprehensive study of acupuncture and children was funded by the National Institutes of Health and performed by the University of Arizona Pediatrics Department. The study involved several children; its goal was to determine to what extent muscle hypertonicity could be eliminated.
One child in the study had severely tight muscles that were impeding the development of his internal organs. The 5-year-old had limited vocal ability, and his affect was more or less flat. He underwent acupuncture at seven channels on his lower and upper extremities; the treatment lasted a few hours. Researchers noted a decrease in hypertonicity that was short in duration.
After a second treatment, the child began crying at the insertion of the needles, and researchers removed the needles.
Auricular treatment without needles was implemented, and it was noted that his muscles were not as hard as they were before treatment. In this treatment, the points were stimulated by an ear probe. By the end of 16 treatments with the ear probe, the child’s limb thrusting was reduced by 50 percent.
Another randomized controlled trial at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center indicated that acupuncture may provide relief to children with spastic cerebral palsy. The evaluation-blind trial assessed children ages 12 to 72 months with spasticity.
After 16 weeks of acupuncture treatment, one group of children displayed improvement in their gross motor functionality that exceeded researcher’s expectations. The conclusion of the study is that acupuncture can, if done properly and early, help children improve their ability to function physically, but further study is needed.
One area of promise is in the area of laser acupuncture, which targets points by using low-energy, pulsating laser beams instead of traditional needles.
The beam radiates against the skin and stimulates the point in a way that a needle would. A study performed on 29 children in China with brain damage, when they received laser acupuncture on various scalp points, experienced improvements in cerebral blood flow, which can enhance physical function.
In its most traditional form, acupuncture is performed by penetrating the skin of certain points of the body with thin, small needles. Chinese medicine indicates that by penetrating certain points of the body, it affects the flow of qi, or life force, through the body’s channels, referred to as meridians.
The premise of acupuncture is based on a theory that all the body’s functions are dictated by the qi, and if there are disruptions to the energy’s flow, it can cause pain. By placing the needles in anatomical points, the flow is opened, restored or enhanced.
Actuation, or the processes of the body that encourage circulation
Warming, or the body’s limbs
Containment, or body fluids
Defense, against pathogenic or spiritual invaders
Transformation, or food, drink and breathing to increase flow into the body’s channels
The body’s 12 meridians are located throughout the body; eight are considered “extraordinary,” or essential to the qi’s existence. Meridians also represent the locations that are considered points for needle insertion during therapy.
However, the qi has no known physiological counterpart; and modern practitioners typically focus on pressure points on the head, neck, legs and hands. It is not known how many pressure points – or clusters of nerves or sensitive spots – a human has, though practitioners believe that it is in the hundreds.
Acupuncture is considered minimally invasive; the needles, tiny in circumference, are never inserted deeply into skin.
Some of the conditions acupuncture practitioners say can be helped through the therapy include:
Muscle pain and tightness
Anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Depression
Cancer
Drug dependence
Fibromyalgia
Arthritis
Bell’s palsy
Autism
Acupuncture for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Part of having cerebral palsy means finding new ways to cope with various physical symptoms, some of which acupuncture is believed to remedy.
The most comprehensive study of acupuncture and children was funded by the National Institutes of Health and performed by the University of Arizona Pediatrics Department. The study involved several children; its goal was to determine to what extent muscle hypertonicity could be eliminated.
One child in the study had severely tight muscles that were impeding the development of his internal organs. The 5-year-old had limited vocal ability, and his affect was more or less flat. He underwent acupuncture at seven channels on his lower and upper extremities; the treatment lasted a few hours. Researchers noted a decrease in hypertonicity that was short in duration.
After a second treatment, the child began crying at the insertion of the needles, and researchers removed the needles.
Auricular treatment without needles was implemented, and it was noted that his muscles were not as hard as they were before treatment. In this treatment, the points were stimulated by an ear probe. By the end of 16 treatments with the ear probe, the child’s limb thrusting was reduced by 50 percent.
Another randomized controlled trial at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center indicated that acupuncture may provide relief to children with spastic cerebral palsy. The evaluation-blind trial assessed children ages 12 to 72 months with spasticity.
After 16 weeks of acupuncture treatment, one group of children displayed improvement in their gross motor functionality that exceeded researcher’s expectations. The conclusion of the study is that acupuncture can, if done properly and early, help children improve their ability to function physically, but further study is needed.
One area of promise is in the area of laser acupuncture, which targets points by using low-energy, pulsating laser beams instead of traditional needles.
The beam radiates against the skin and stimulates the point in a way that a needle would. A study performed on 29 children in China with brain damage, when they received laser acupuncture on various scalp points, experienced improvements in cerebral blood flow, which can enhance physical function.
What Is Cerebral Palsy and how to prevent Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a broad term used to describe a group of chronic
"palsies" -- disorders that impair control of movement due to damage to the
developing brain. CP usually develops by age 2 or 3 and is a nonprogressive
brain disorder, meaning the brain damage does not continue to worsen throughout
life. However, the symptoms due to thebrain damage often change over time --
sometimes getting better and sometimes getting worse. CP is one of the most
common causes of chronic childhood disability.
About 10,000 infants are diagnosed with CP and up to 1,500preschoolers in the U.S. are recognized as having it each year. The United Cerebral Palsy Association estimates that more than 764,000 Americans have CP.
Between 35% and 50% of all children with CP will have an accompanying seizure disorder and some level of mental retardation. They also may have learning disabilities and vision, speech, hearing, or language problems.
Much remains unknown about the disorder's causes, but evidence supports theories that infections, birth injuries, and poor oxygen supply to the brain before, during, and immediately after birth result are common factors. Premature infants are particularly vulnerable. Severe illness (such as meningitis) during the first years of life, physical trauma, and severe dehydration can cause brain injury and result in CP.
How to prevent Cerebral Palsy
The cause of cerebral palsy (CP) sometimes isn't known. But links have been identified between CP and certain conditions during pregnancy, birth, and early childhood. Some of these can be prevented. Some cannot.
Before and during pregnancy
Doing all you can before and during pregnancy can help lower the risk that a brain injury will occur in a developing baby. Here are some tips for healthy habits before and during pregnancy.
Eat nutritious foods.
Don't smoke.
Avoid exposure to harmful substances.
See your doctor regularly.
For babies and young children
Help prevent CP in your young child by minimizing your child's risk for getting a brain injury.
Take steps to prevent accidents.
Make sure you are familiar with the signs of jaundice in newborns.
Know how to prevent lead poisoning.
Keep your child away from people who have serious contagious illnesses, such as meningitis.
Make sure your child's immunizations are up-to-date. For more information, see the topic Immunizations.
If your child has not been diagnosed with CP, pay attention to whether your child is reaching early developmental milestones. Report anything you notice to your doctor at regularly scheduled well-child visits or anytime you have concerns.
About 10,000 infants are diagnosed with CP and up to 1,500preschoolers in the U.S. are recognized as having it each year. The United Cerebral Palsy Association estimates that more than 764,000 Americans have CP.
Between 35% and 50% of all children with CP will have an accompanying seizure disorder and some level of mental retardation. They also may have learning disabilities and vision, speech, hearing, or language problems.
Much remains unknown about the disorder's causes, but evidence supports theories that infections, birth injuries, and poor oxygen supply to the brain before, during, and immediately after birth result are common factors. Premature infants are particularly vulnerable. Severe illness (such as meningitis) during the first years of life, physical trauma, and severe dehydration can cause brain injury and result in CP.
How to prevent Cerebral Palsy
The cause of cerebral palsy (CP) sometimes isn't known. But links have been identified between CP and certain conditions during pregnancy, birth, and early childhood. Some of these can be prevented. Some cannot.
Before and during pregnancy
Doing all you can before and during pregnancy can help lower the risk that a brain injury will occur in a developing baby. Here are some tips for healthy habits before and during pregnancy.
Eat nutritious foods.
Don't smoke.
Avoid exposure to harmful substances.
See your doctor regularly.
For babies and young children
Help prevent CP in your young child by minimizing your child's risk for getting a brain injury.
Take steps to prevent accidents.
Make sure you are familiar with the signs of jaundice in newborns.
Know how to prevent lead poisoning.
Keep your child away from people who have serious contagious illnesses, such as meningitis.
Make sure your child's immunizations are up-to-date. For more information, see the topic Immunizations.
If your child has not been diagnosed with CP, pay attention to whether your child is reaching early developmental milestones. Report anything you notice to your doctor at regularly scheduled well-child visits or anytime you have concerns.
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