World Cerebral Palsy Day: Understanding Orthopaedic Complications of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition caused by a brain injury that takes place before, during or shortly after birth. It affects muscle tone and control, which can result in involuntary movements or abrmal walking.

deformities are majorly caused by increased muscle tone. primary orthopaedic conditions most affected in cerebral palsy are balance, impacted fine and gross motor function, impaired muscle tone, impaired movements, coordination and control, impaired oral motor function, etc.

Dr Rakesh Lalla of Fortis Hospital has shed light on  orthopaedic complications of cerebral palsy:

• Muscle Contracture: This condition is incurable, but it is t progressive, though living with it could mean that patient would have repressed movement and experience excruciating pain.

• Hip Dysplasia: Deformity of hip joint is a characteristic of Hip Dysplasia occurring in a patient with cerebral palsy

• Foot-orthopaedic health: Abrmal muscle contractions in feet can le to flat foot

• Scoliosis: Cerebral palsy may le to development of Scoliosis. Here, back muscles are affected, rendering m inequate to support spine, causing curvature, giving spine a ‘C’ or ‘S’-shaped curve. Even though cerebral palsy itself is t progressive, this is a condition that can get worse with time, if t treated

• Or concerns: A person with cerebral palsy may have one leg which is longer than or, which could make walking difficult and uncomfortable. Torsion in legs is ar possible issue, where legs eir twist in or out, making walking difficult

Dr Pramod Bhor of Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi talked about importance of monitoring orthopaedic health and using treatments.

“To provide  best opportunity for a full life to a person suffering with cerebral palsy, it is crucial to monitor his/her orthopaedic health. n-invasive strategies like physical rapy help cope with disabilities, only resorting to surgery when it is needed. Physical rapy is important because it helps joints and bones to stay in correct alignment and can keep things from getting any worse. Treatment mostly consists of physical rapy, injections, splints and surgical procedures to correct deformities,” said Dr Pramod Bhor.