Cerebral Palsy Program

When your child comes to the Cerebral Palsy Program at Riley at IU Health for diagnosis and treatment, he or she will receive extensive care from multiple specialists. These specialists include experts in neurology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, orthopedic surgery, developmental pediatrics, nutrition, physical and occupational therapy and assistive devices (braces and wheelchairs). The Cerebral Palsy Program is the only comprehensive center of its kind in Indiana.

Cerebral palsy affects each child in a different way. The condition can be mild or severe, but it does not get worse over time. Children with cerebral palsy can also experience vision, hearing, speech and learning disabilities.

There are three different kinds of cerebral palsy:

• Athetoid cerebral palsy. This kind of cerebral palsy is marked by involuntary and uncontrolled movements.
• Ataxic cerebral palsy. This form of cerebral palsy affects balance and coordination.
• Spastic cerebral palsy. Children with this type of cerebral palsy have stiff arms or legs and trouble moving.

Signs of cerebral palsy usually appear before a child is 3 years old. Early symptoms include:

• Lack of coordination
• Stiff arms or legs
• Weak muscles
• Exaggerated reflexes
• Walking with a limp
• Walking on the toes
• Crouched gait

Symptoms of cerebral palsy vary depending on the specific form of the condition affecting your child. The most common symptoms include:

• Seizures
• Stiffness of the arms and/or legs
• Difficulty walking
• Developmental delays

Proper nutrition is highly important for children with cerebral palsy. Our cerebral palsy team includes dietitians who will work with you and your child to plan diets rich in the proper nutrients to keep bones strong and healthy.

Physical and occupational therapists are also a part of the comprehensive team. They will evaluate your child’s needs and develop a therapy treatment plan.

The Cerebral Palsy Program can help with intractable epilepsy management, spasticity treatment, orthopedic needs, growth and development and medical waiver information.

While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, the Cerebral Palsy Program at Riley at IU Health provides extensive management to strengthen your child’s abilities and maintain his or her well-being.