Cerebral palsy is defined as a nonprogressive abnormality in the central nervous system (CNS) that is typically diagnosed during infancy and early childhood. This abnormality of the CNS, which includes the brain and the spinal cord, can be caused during the development of the fetus or by an injury. It commonly results in a movement disorder that is expressed in a variety of forms that range from mild incoordination to muscle stiffness and disordered, uncontrolled movements in the trunk and limbs. The muscle stiffness over time can result in muscle contraction (scarring with loss in ability to stretch), deformities in bone growth and dislocation of bone joints.
The specialists at Function treat the conditions caused by cerebral palsy in children and adults. After an evaluation, these specialists devise and coordinate a treatment plan using a variety of approaches, including:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Oral medications
- Orthotics and other assistive devices
- Muscle and nerve injections (BOTOX, phenol and alcohol)
- Selective dorsal rhizotomy
- Selective neurectomy
- Intrathecal baclofen via pump
- Tendon lengthening
- Tendon transfer
- Joint reconstruction and joint fusion
- Spinal fusions
- Osteotomies
- Patella reconstruction
- Femoral head resection
- Urological assessment (ultrasonic evaluation of voiding, uroflowetry and cystometry)