Assessment and treatment of children with cerebral palsy

Orthop Clin North Am. 2014 Jul;45(3):313-25. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2014.03.003.

Abstract

Children with cerebral palsy are prone to development of musculoskeletal deformities. The underlying neurlogic insult may results in a loss of selective motor control, an increase in underlying muscle tone, and muscle imbalance, which can lead to abnormal deforming forces acting on the immature skeleton. The severely involved child is one who is at increased risk for developing progressive musculoskeletal deformities. Close surveillance and evaluation are key to addressing the underlying deformity and improving and maintaining overall function.

Keywords: Cerebral palsy; Feet; Hips; Neuromuscular; Orthopedics; Spasticity; Spine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cerebral Palsy / complications*
  • Cerebral Palsy / diagnosis
  • Child
  • Contracture / etiology
  • Disease Progression
  • Gait
  • Hip / physiopathology
  • Hip Dislocation / etiology
  • Humans
  • Knee Joint / physiopathology
  • Medical History Taking
  • Motor Skills / classification
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / etiology*
  • Orthopedic Procedures
  • Physical Examination
  • Scoliosis / etiology
  • Scoliosis / surgery