Cerebral Palsy

In the 1980s, a government study was conducted of more than 35,000 births, and the surprising result was that complications during birth accounted for only a very small number of cases of cerebral palsy—less than 10 percent. The overwhelming conclusion of the study was this: In most cases of cerebral palsy, no one single cause could be found.

The government study in the 1980s led doctors to reexplore their medical theories and the way research about cerebral palsy is done. Since then, there have been important changes in the way we understand cerebral palsy and the people who are affected by it.

Today, for example, doctors are able to identify infants with cerebral palsy very early in life, which gives youngsters the best opportunity for developing to their full potential. And new research has led to better ways of finding and treating problems that may actually cause cerebral palsy. Because of this new research, certain conditions that have been known to cause cerebral palsy, such as rubella (German measles) and jaundice, can now be prevented and treated.

Also, children today who have cerebral palsy are better able to be independent, to achieve, and to succeed in life by using specific physical, behavioral, and other therapies. And medications, braces, and even surgery can often improve muscle and nerve coordination, help treat other medical problems associated with cerebral palsy, and even prevent or correct deformities.