Ebook: Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that affects the individual, family, and immediate community. Therefore, the goal of allowing the individual with cerebral palsy to live life with the least impact of the disability requires c- plex attention to the individual and the family. Furthermore, society needs to be sensitive and to accommodate individuals with disabilities by limiting architectural impediments and providing accessible public transportation and communication. The educational system provides the key means for helping the individual prepare to function in society to his or her maximum ability. In many ways, the medical care system probably has the least sign- icant role in preparing the child with cerebral palsy to function optimally in society. However, the medical care system is the place where parents first learn that their child has developmental issues outside the expected norm. It is almost universally the place where parents also expect the child to be made normal in our modern society. In earlier times, the parents would expect healing to possibly come from the doctor, but also they would place hope for healing in religion. As this belief in spiritual or miraculous healing has - creased, a significant font of hope has decreased for parents of young ch- dren with disabilities.

The medical treatment and education of children with cerebral palsy is complex and involves a diverse range of professionals. Dr. Miller’s valuable resource helps members of the medical team navigate the complexity. Readers will become familiar with treatments that fall outside of their own disciplines while also benefiting from a review of current practices in their own fields.

This comprehensive reference outlines the etiology of cerebral palsy and presents a description of muscle tone and movement problems. Dr. Miller discusses the theory and techniques used by physical and occupational therapists, and he provides suggestions for implementing an Individual Education Plan. Recommended treatment algorithms address common questions, such as how to select equipment. Detailed anatomical drawings supplement coverage of anatomy, surgical techniques, and specific local treatments.

A companion CD-ROM includes videos of children with abnormal gaits and more than 400 interactive study questions.