The History of Cerebral Palsy
A Long Wait for Recognition of the Disease that Cripples
Even though history lacks written proof, there is no doubt that cerebral palsy has existed as long as women have been giving birth. But it was not until 1861 that an English surgeon, named Dr. William John Little, wrote the first medical description of a crippling disorder that made children’s muscles stiff, weak, and prone to twitch.
Dr. Little noted that these children also had trouble grasping, crawling, or walking. He termed their condition, “Little’s Disease.” The diagnosis is still sometimes used today for children who have spastic diplegia, a type of cerebral palsy.
Dr. Little observed that many of the children with muscle control problems were born following complicated deliveries. He suggested that their condition was caused by a lack of oxygen during labor; this in turn caused brain damage.
Cerebral Palsy Mythology and the Influence of Sigmund Freud
As with all good science, disagreements eventually surfaced. In 1897, the notorious psychiatrist Sigmund Freud disputed Dr. Little’s conclusions. Freud stated that, because these children had other medical problems (e.g. mental retardation, visual impairment, seizures), the disorder could possibly begin before birth. Freud wrote, “Difficult birth, in certain cases, is merely a symptom of deeper effects that influence the development of the fetus.”
Despite Freud’s observations, the belief that complications at birth cause most cases of cerebral palsy was widespread among physicians, families, and even medical researchers, until very recently.
Extensive Research Proves That No Two Children are the Same
In the 1980s, scientists analyzed extensive data from a government study of more than 35,000 births. While they found evidence that birth trauma was the cause of thousands of cerebral palsy cases, the scientist could find no single cause in the majority of those cases. The findings profoundly altered medical theories about cerebral palsy and have spurred today’s research to explore alternative causes.
At the same time, biomedical research has also led to significant changes in understanding, diagnosing, and treating children with cerebral palsy.
Modern Medicine, Plus Prevention, are Key to Health and Longevity
By recognizing and identifying your child’s cerebral palsy as early as possible, she has a better chance of developing to her full capacity. Biomedical research and diagnostic techniques such as advanced brain imaging and modern gait analysis make this process easier.
Because of the research being done, children with cerebral palsy, along with those who care for them, are benefiting enormously:
- Certain conditions known to cause cerebral palsy, such as rubella (German measles) and jaundice, can now be prevented and treated.
- Physical, psychological, and behavioral therapy can assist your child with such skills as movement and speech and foster social and emotional development.
- Medications, surgery, and braces can improve her nerve and muscle coordination, help treat associated medical problems, and either prevent or correct deformities.
Diagnosing and preventing cerebral palsy has come a long way since Dr. Little wrote his paper on the mysterious condition. But medical science still faces years of research before it successfully conquers this devastating disorder once and for all.
You are Your Child’s Best Advocate: What You Can Do
While science is doing its part to ensure a healthy future for children with cerebral palsy, you know and understand the needs of your child like no one else. You have the power to ensure your child has adequate resources to live a healthy and happy life.
You also need to know that your medical team did everything possible to keep your baby safe and healthy. If your doctor failed you and your baby in any way, you may be entitled to financial help.
Be your child’s best advocate and talk to an expert.
Contact 4MYCHILD today and see if your child is eligible for Benefits4Life.
