| Spastic cerebral palsy is the most commonly occurring form, affecting 70-80% of those with the condition. Some spastic cerebral palsy victims also display symptoms of the athetoid and/or ataxic variety, and the combination is known as mixed cerebral palsy. The term "spastic" refers to one who is prone to spasms, which are involuntary contractions of muscles. Spastic cerebral palsy is characterized by tight muscle tone, which results in rigid and jerky movements. Those affected by this condition may have difficulty changing positions and performing other basic movements. Spastic cerebral palsy can affect different parts of the body, most typically in one of these patterns:
- Arm and leg on one side (hemiplegia)
- Both legs only (diplegia)
- Both arms and both legs (quadriplegia)
In some rare instances, only one limb may be affected. Children with spastic diplegia often have difficulty walking because taut muscles in the legs and hips can cause the knees to turn inward. This results in a scissors gait, which is characteristic for those affected with this form of cerebral palsy. In cases of spastic hemiplegia the arm is typically more affected than the leg, and children may tiptoe on the affected side. The most severe pattern is spastic quadriplegia, in which all four limbs are affected. Many children who have this form of cerebral palsy also display symptoms of mental retardation. The treatment for cerebral palsy is largely dependent on the type displayed and the parts of the body affected. |
