Palsy definition
Searched over 200M research papers for "palsy definition"
Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting movement and posture due to non-progressive disturbances in the developing brain, with a focus on function, comorbid features, and timing of injury for improved diagnosis and treatment.
Not a yes or no question
To use the Consensus Meter, try asking a simple yes or no question
Research summarized with Copilot
Beta20 papers analyzed
Understanding Palsy: Definition and Classification
Definition of Palsy
Palsy, often used interchangeably with paralysis, refers to a condition characterized by the loss or impairment of voluntary muscle movements. The term is frequently associated with cerebral palsy (CP), a specific type of palsy that affects movement and posture due to brain abnormalities or lesions occurring early in life .
Cerebral Palsy: A Detailed Definition
Cerebral palsy is defined as a group of permanent disorders affecting the development of movement and posture, leading to activity limitations. These disorders are attributed to non-progressive disturbances that occurred in the developing fetal or infant brain . The condition is not a diagnosis in itself but rather an umbrella term covering a wide range of cerebral disorders resulting in childhood motor impairment.
Classification of Cerebral Palsy
Traditional and Modern Classifications
Historically, cerebral palsy has been classified based on the type of motor disorder and the anatomical distribution of the impairment. Traditional classifications include spastic, dyskinetic, and ataxic forms . However, recent efforts have aimed to refine these classifications to better reflect the functional and non-motor features of CP, which are significant in everyday life .
Phenotypic and Functional Classifications
The International Workshop on the Definition and Classification of Cerebral Palsy has proposed a more detailed classification system that emphasizes the timing and causation of the brain injury, as well as the functional consequences. This system suggests classifying CP as unilateral or bilateral, with specific descriptions of all affected body areas, including trunk and oromotor involvement . The predominant abnormalities of muscle tone and the presence of hyperkinetic movement disorders should also be recorded.
Epidemiology and Risk Factors
Cerebral palsy is one of the most frequent causes of motor disability in children, with an average frequency of 2.08 per 1000 live births. The incidence is significantly higher in children born with a body weight below 1500 grams. The risk factors for CP can be categorized into pre-conception, prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal factors.
Conclusion
Palsy, particularly cerebral palsy, encompasses a range of motor disorders resulting from early brain abnormalities. The definition and classification of CP have evolved to include a more comprehensive understanding of its functional and non-motor features. This evolution aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and the overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
