Types of Cerebral Palsy
There are several types of cerebral palsy but the following are the three most common:
- Spastic Cerebral Palsy– Stiff, tight muscles, which make movements hard.
- Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy– A term describing three different types of involuntary movements, dystonic, athetoid, and choreic.
- Ataxic Cerebral Palsy– Issues balancing, difficulty figuring out how far away they, or something is, and coordination.
The most common mixed form of cerebral palsy includes spasticity and dyskinetic movements, but other combinations are also possible.
Mixed CP Treatment Options
Treatment for mixed CP is often addressed by each of the symptoms of the individual movement disorders.
Common treatment options for mixed cerebral palsy are:
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Surgical Interventions
- Medications
- Orthotics
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
Since there is no set treatment plan for any specific type of CP, treating mixed CP should focus on treating the symptoms presented by each person. For example, an individual may take medications for the movement disorder of dystonia, but also may look at other options, such as a medication or a surgical intervention, to address issues related to spasticity.
Those with mixed cerebral palsy should be seen by their medical team often. As the person grows and changes, or as adults age, it is important to monitor for changes in symptoms, making adjustments as needed for each person. It is especially important that symptoms are monitored after new treatments are started for those with mixed CP. Sometimes, for example, an effort to reduce spasticity may reveal underlying muscle weakness or more dystonia. Treating mixed CP is a balance that can often seem difficult to achieve, but taking it in steps helps.
The information found here can be found in our free downloadable cerebral palsy tool kit.
