Living with Cerebral Palsy in Adults

Cerebral palsy causes problems with muscle coordination and other issues with movement. Injury or infection during pregnancy can cause the condition and can occur before, during, or after birth. Genetic mutations can also be a cause. However, mild cerebral palsy in adults may not be noticed until the individual begins walking during the first few years of life. In this post, we will take a look at what you need to know about cerebral palsy and aging.

Can Adults Get Cerebral Palsy?

There is no such thing as adult onset cerebral palsy. When it comes to cerebral palsy, adults either had it beginning in infancy or during preschool years. However, cerebral palsy can cause new challenges and issues as a person ages.

Is Cerebral Palsy Degenerative?

No. Cerebral palsy doesn’t get worse over time but as stated above, the condition can cause new challenges with age. Adults may experience premature aging as they get older due to the symptoms associated with the condition.

What Are the Causes of Cerebral Palsy in Adults?

Cerebral palsy adult causes can occur before, during and after birth include. These causes include:

Before and during birth

• Disruptions in fetal brain development causing congenital malformations
• Genetic issues affecting fetal development
• Infections in the central nervous system (e.g. brain or spinal cord)
• Kernicterus (a rare but severe type of brain damage caused by very high levels of bilirubin — a chemical made in the liver — in a baby’s blood)
• Lack of blood flow or oxygen to the fetal brain
• Meconium aspiration (when a newborn baby inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid, potentially causing respiratory distress)
• Newborn hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)
• Premature birth
• Strokes, which affect the developing brain

After birth

• Accidental injuries
• Asphyxiation
• Jaundice and kernicterus
• Infection, strokes or bleeding in and around their brain
• Physical abuse.

Next, let’s discuss the symptoms of living with cerebral palsy.

What Are Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy in Adults?

There are many long-term effects of cerebral palsy. Some cerebral palsy symptoms in adults include:

• Cerebral palsy pain in the legs, arms, shoulders, hips, neck, and back
• Floppy limbs
• Involuntary movements in arms, hands, and legs
• Paralysis
• Scissor-like movements with legs when walking
• Swallowing difficulties
• Twitching in the face and tongue
• Weak or stiff muscles; loss in muscle tone

In the next section, we’ll review how to manage cerebral palsy.

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What is Cerebral Palsy Treatment for Adults?

Now that we know more about life with cerebral palsy, we can take a look at ways to manage the condition while aging with cerebral palsy. The below options are just to provide general information and should not replace the advice of a medical professional.

• Medications (muscle or nerve injections; oral muscle relaxants; and medications to reduce drooling e.g. botox injections in salivary glands)
• Therapies (occupational therapy; physical therapy; speech therapy; and recreational therapy)
• Surgical procedures (orthopedic surgery; dorsal rhizotomy — or cutting nerve fibers)

However, adults with cerebral palsy also require more ongoing health care. This includes:

• Dental issues
• Fatigue and pain
• Heart and lung disease
• Mental health issues (e.g. depression)
• Muscle tone maintenance
• Orthopedic issues (e.g. arthritis, contractures, and osteoporosis)
• Seizure management
• Vision and hearing issues

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.