physical therapy of CP
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a childhood condition in which there is a motor disability
(palsy) caused by a static, nonprogressive lesion in the brain (cerebral).
The causative event has to occur in early childhood, usually defined as less
than 2 years of age. Children with CP have a condition that is stable and nonprogressive;
therefore, they are in most ways normal children with special
needs. Understanding the medical and anatomic problems in individuals
with CP is important; however, always keeping in mind the greater long-term
goal, which is similar to that for all normal children, is important as well.
The goal for these children, their families, medical care, education, and society
at large is for them to grow and develop to their maximum capabilities
so that they may succeed as contributing members of society. This goal is
especially important to keep in perspective during the more anatomically
detailed concerns discussed in the remainder of this text