Signs of Cerebral Palsy in a Baby

Any uncertainty you have about your baby’s health and development can be extremely concerning, especially after a traumatic delivery. If your baby suffered an injury during birth, you might be worried about how it could affect their future. One particular concern is cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that affects a child’s movement, muscle control, and posture due to damage or abnormalities in the developing brain.

It is important to discuss all your concerns regarding your baby’s health and development with your baby’s doctor without delay. Below are some early signs of cerebral palsy to help you understand what to look for and discuss with your baby’s doctor.

Overarching Signs:

Cerebral palsy is a condition that typically becomes noticeable in the first few months of a child's life. However, it's important to note that a formal diagnosis may not occur until your child is around two years old or even later. Here are some key early signs to watch out for:

1. Developmental Delays: One of the primary indicators of cerebral palsy is developmental delays. This means that your child may be slower to achieve important milestones like rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or walking. These delays can serve as crucial clues that cerebral palsy might be a possibility.

2. Abnormal Muscle Tone: Keep an eye on your child's muscle tone. In cerebral palsy, you might notice that certain body parts appear either too floppy or overly stiff. Any significant deviation from the typical muscle tone development could be a sign worth investigating.

3. Abnormal Posture: Observe how your child moves and maintains posture. Children with cerebral palsy may favor one side of their body when reaching for objects, crawling, or simply moving around. This unevenness in posture can be another early indicator.

Age-Specific Signs:

As your child grows, certain age-specific signs may become more apparent:

For Infants Younger than 6 Months:

• They may struggle to hold up their head when picked up from lying on their back.

• Your baby might feel stiff or excessively floppy.

• When you pick them up, their legs may appear stiff or crossed.

• They might overextend their back and neck when held, often seeming as though they are pushing away from you.

For Infants Older than 6 Months:

• Rolling over may prove challenging for them.

• They may have difficulty bringing their hands to their mouth.

• Your child might find it hard to bring their hands together.

• You may notice that they reach out with only one hand while holding the other in a fist.

For Infants Older than 10 Months:

• Their crawling style may be uneven, with one hand and leg doing more of the work while the other lags behind.

• Some children with cerebral palsy may scoot around on their buttocks or hop on their knees instead of crawling on all fours.

• Standing with support may be a struggle for them.

Seeking Professional Advice:

It's important to remember that some of these signs can also be observed in children without cerebral palsy. Nevertheless, if you notice any of these signs and have concerns about your child's development, don't hesitate to consult your child's healthcare provider. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in managing cerebral palsy and helping your child thrive.

Your child's healthcare provider can conduct assessments and, if necessary, refer you to specialists who can provide a more comprehensive evaluation. Early detection and appropriate care can lead to better outcomes for children with cerebral palsy.

Understanding the early signs of cerebral palsy can empower you to take action if needed. Trust your instincts as a parent, and don't hesitate to seek professional guidance. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and there are resources and support available to help you and your child every step of the way.