Comprehensive Care for Babies with Cerebral Palsy in Northern California

Cerebral palsy is the most common movement disorder in children. It is caused by abnormal brain development before birth or brain damage before, during or just after birth. Parts of the brain that control movement are affected in children with cerebral palsy.

Dignity Health North State excels in medical and supportive care for babies born with cerebral palsy or other fetal conditions. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, our skilled doctors and nurses offer excellent maternity and prenatal care at these locations:

Even women with uncomplicated pregnancies can give birth to a baby with health problems, including cerebral palsy. For family-centered care of babies with cerebral palsy in Northern California, Find a Doctor today.

 

What Causes Cerebral Palsy in Children?

The cause of cerebral palsy in children is abnormal brain development or damage from such conditions as:

  • Bleeding in the brain before birth
  • Genetic defects, but cerebral palsy does not appear to be inherited
  • Head injury after birth, such as from a fall or other accident
  • Infections during pregnancy, including chickenpox, rubella, and cytomegalovirus
  • Lack of oxygen (asphyxia) to the baby’s brain during pregnancy or labor and delivery 
  • Toxic exposures, such as mercury 

At Dignity Health North State, we help reduce the risk of cerebral palsy by identifying potential problems during regular checkups throughout your pregnancy and during labor and delivery. 

 

Signs of Cerebral Palsy in Infants

Cerebral palsy symptoms in babies may not be obvious at birth. This is especially true for preterm infants. In general, cerebral palsy symptoms in infants include: 

  • Delayed development
  • Feeding or swallowing difficulties
  • Seizures
  • Uncontrollable, abnormal, or spastic movements
  • Weak muscles

Signs of cerebral palsy in older children can include poor balance, lack of coordination, problems with speech, vision, and hearing, and learning delays. 

 

Treating Infants & Children with Cerebral Palsy at Dignity Health North State

If your baby has cerebral palsy, your doctor will help you understand your child’s needs and available medical treatments. There is no cure, but early intervention is key to living well with cerebral palsy. 

Your child’s long-term treatment options may include:

  • Assistive devices to help your child move around safely and with more ease 
  • Medication to relax stiff and spastic muscles
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to strengthen muscles, communicate effectively, and reach developmental milestones 
  • Surgery to improve movement 

At Dignity Health North State, the trusted partnership we develop with our patients and families helps children with cerebral palsy overcome challenges and grow into adults. Talk to your doctor for more information about personalized care for babies with cerebral palsy in Northern California.

Dignity Health North State offers comprehensive, long-term health care for infants and children with cerebral palsy in Mt. Shasta, Red Bluff, and Redding, CA.