Cerebral Palsy (CP) is an umbrella term to describe a group of disabilities that affect the motor control of individuals. The three classifications are Spastic, Ataxic and Athetoid.
Spastic Cerebral Palsy affects people about 80% of the time and is characterized by muscle tension (known as “hypertonic”) in the muscle stemming from a lesion in the motor cortex and brain. Ataxic Cerebral Palsy is reported in 10% of cases and the main brain damage is centered on the cerebellum. Poor muscle tone (called “hypotonia”) and tremors are major characteristics of the disease. Athetoid Cerebral Palsy is reported in 10% of cases and is characterized by both hypotonia and hypertonic muscle tension.
While symptoms differ and have varying degrees in each classification of CP—there are similarities. If a child is born with CP, it is generally diagnosed within the first 6-9 months of life. In some cases CP may develop after birth, brought on by poisoning by toxins or lead, physical brain injury and meningitis.
The defining characteristic of CP is abnormal muscle tone. CP is not a progressive disease, but can worsen with time causing early onset of arthritis and tendentious. Tremors, spastic movement, learning disabilities, seizures, and speech disorders are symptoms of CP. IQ and learning disabilities are hard to determine until the child enters school.
Speech disorders are a common symptom. Dysarthria, a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult to articulate sounds, is common and is likely caused by weakness in muscles. Because the child has spasms, limited range of motion and slow movement, fine motor skills can be difficult to control. This can cause problems with production of sounds and formation of words and phrases.
There is no cure for CP. Depending on the severity of the disease, some symptoms are more treatable than others. Physical and occupational therapists and early intervention are necessary to help children make headway with the physical symptoms and muscle issues associated with the disease.
When it comes to speech, a speech language pathologist is necessary to work with the child. Starting early is best to help formulate communication skills. Speech therapy also helps engage and work the muscles on the face helping if the child has chewing or swallowing problems. Speech therapy may last through their school years, but it is vital to their emotional and mental development and communication.
Speech Buddies are being evaluated to help with articulating in children who suffer from CP.
Articulation Disorder, Apraxia of Speech, Autism, Cleft Palate, Down syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Language Disorder, Speech Delay, Stuttering
References:
"My 10 year old daughter Emily loves the little Speech Buddy and it worked for her R's."
- Monica A.
"The feedback he was able to get from the R Speech Buddy in terms of what his tongue was doing was extremely helpful for him and he began producing a retroflex R even without the Speech Buddy."
- Chris and Hillary P.
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