The Strong Representation Your Case Deserves

Early signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy in Boise, Idaho

On Behalf of | Jan 12, 2023 | Cerebral Palsy

If you notice your infant acting strangely or not developing the way they should, you might wonder what’s wrong with them. Developmental delays could be a sign of cerebral palsy, so it is important to know its symptoms.

Signs of cerebral palsy in Infants

Early signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy in infants include developmental delays, irregular muscle tone, and tremors.

Developmental delays

Developmental milestones an infant should attain, and the approximate age they should attain them by are:

  • Can lift their head, and move their limbs evenly – two months
  • Can reach for and grasp objects, sit up with assistance, and roll over – four months
  • Can sit up by themselves, babble, handle objects with both hands – six months
  • Can crawl, pull up to stand, use a pincer grip, and play purposefully – nine months
  • Independently stand, sit, point to objects, may walk or use simple words – 1 year.

Children may not reach milestones even if they have CP. Consult your doctor if your baby doesn’t progress as it should. Many doctors hesitate to diagnose cerebral palsy in infants at a young age since symptoms sometimes disappear by age 2.

Irregular muscle tone

Babies may have high or low muscle tone. Stiff movements characterize spastic cerebral palsy, the most common form of CP. These infants may clench their hands, cross their legs, and bend their knees. Hypotonia causes weak limbs and poor head control. Children with low muscle tone typically have ataxic cerebral palsy. Infants with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have fluctuating muscle tone. Their movements seem constant.

That’s what you need to know about the early signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy. If your infant’s development worries you, see a doctor.

Archives