SPINE DEFORMITIES
Cerebral palsy and Neuro-Muscular
Neuromuscular spinal deformities are associated with medical conditions that impair the muscles supporting the spine, including cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
Although the aetiology (origin) of neuromuscular scoliosis is different from idiopathic scoliosis, this type also needs to be managed in order to prevent permanent vertebral deformity, make the patient more manageable, and in many cases, reduce pulmonary complications as well as reduce pain (when the curve becomes large enough, the 12th rib can over-ride the top of the pelvis. This is very painful, and often the patient cannot describe or verbalise that they are in pain.
Specific bracing is available for these cases and will prevent progression in many cases as well as stabilise the spine.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a motor disability that affects muscle tone, movement, and motor skills. Cerebral means having to do with the brain, and Palsy means weakness with using the muscles. CP hinders the body’s ability to move in a purposeful and coordinated way, and can also affect other body functions that involve motor skills.