Cerebral palsy is a general umbrella term that is used to refer
to a group of non-contagious diseases that are non-progressive
and that create a disability in physical human development. The
name of the disorder is quite descriptive. Cerebral refers to
the part of the brain that is affected, which is the cerebrum.
Even though the cerebrum is identified, researchers are not completely
sure of the exact centre of the disorder and believe that there
may be a connection to other parts of the brain, most notably
the cerebellum. Palsy refers to the disability of movement and
motor functions. A large percentage of cerebral palsy cases are
unknown but some may occur due to damage the motor control centers
of the fetus' brain during pregnancy, childbirth of after birth.
In a few cases, early childhood accidents or incident such as
infections, malnutrition or serious head trauma can also result
in cerebral palsy. Stem Cells
research has indicated that it might be able to help in cerebral
palsy cases.
As of yet there is no specific cure for cerebral palsy. Stem
Cells treatments, while being a possible option, are having
trouble with any serious research because of public opinion towards
stem cell research. Even though no 'cure' exists for cerebral
palsy, advances in various therapies can allow a person suffering
from cerebral palsy to go on living an almost normal life if the
condition is properly managed from an early age. The most important
thing is to start as early as possible with therapy so that a
child can quickly learn ways to overcome his or her disabilities.
There are many treatments and options available and some of them
are physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, seizure
control drugs, corrective surgery, communication aids and many
more. Most of the treatments focus on the specific symptoms a
patient exhibits and they focus on helping a person to develop
what they have and how to overcome any problems.
Cerebral palsy is not a life ending problem. There is a light
at the end of the tunnel and there are many peopl alive today
who have overcome their disabilities and made a success of their
life. A strong support from family and friends and controlled
assistance for the symptoms can do wonders. Cerebral
Palsy and Stem Cells research is still a debated topic. Perhaps
one day, this controversial method may create a cure for this
problem.