World Cerebral Palsy Day: what is the neurological condition?

Today is World Cerebral Palsy Day, a day that raises awareness of the condition and the adversity that  those living with it face on a day-to-day basis.

Cerebral palsy isn’t just one specific condition but rather a varied collection of different neurological issues that affect the brain's ability to process movement, balance, posture, muscle movement and control. The causes can vary but are often linked to complications during pregnancy, with the main causes being some form of injury to the brain as it is developing.

For many wealthy countries, problems surrounding education for children suffering with cerebral palsy are no longer an issue,but many poorer countries simply don’t have the equipment and training to facilitate those living with cerebral palsy. In Indonesia, less than 30% of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy have access to education, in Bolivia that figure is 40%.

Cerebral palsy has no cure, it’s something that a person lives with for their entire life. This doesn’t mean that the neurological condition isn’t manageable though. There are various therapies and medicines that can help alleviate symptoms, improving the overall quality of life for people. Those with cerebral palsy can live a normal life with enough support, but many cultures need proper education on what the condition is.

To find out more about cerebral palsy and World Cerebral Palsy day, please visit https://worldcpday.org/

Photo credit: Texas A&M University-Commerce Marketing Communications Photography (15131-Mayo Speaker Series- RJ Mitte-0239) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons