| Description |
This workshop provides information regarding working with children with cerebral palsy (CP). A definition and explanation of cerebral palsy is explained as a non-progressive disorder of movement and posture. Participants learn about the multifactorial etiology of cerebral palsy, including prematurity and associated conditions such as periventricular leukomalascia (PVL). A discussion is conducted of how the rate of CP and the extent of disability increased in preterm infants born in the 1960s through 1980s as survival improved for the most immature. The different types of CP are explained including spastic, dysthkinetic, and mixed. Information is provided on how Cerebral Palsy can impact development, including mental retardation (34%), learning disabilities (26%), seizure (40%) and pain (84%). A specific assessment tool, The Gross Motor Function Classification System, is explained. Finally, participants learn about treatment modalities that focus on function and pain reduction. Specific treatments including serial casting, gait training, and medications such as Botox are presented. Videos examples are used to help participants further understand children with CP.
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