Diplegia: An Overview
Abstract
Diplegia is a form of cerebral palsy that affects both sides of the body in a symmetrical manner. It is characterized by a wide range of motor impairments, including spasticity and weakness in the arms and legs, resulting in difficulties with posture, balance, and coordination. This article provides an overview of dipslegia, including its causes, diagnosis, treatments, and management.
Introduction
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder caused by non-progressive damage to the developing brain, resulting in physical and cognitive impairments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), CP affects about 3.2 children in 1000 live births in the United States and is the most common physical disability in childhood (CDC, 2021). CP is classified into four different types: spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, and mixed. Diplegia is a type of spastic CP that affects both sides of the body symmetrically and is the most common form of CP, accounting for around 70% of all cases (Kerschensteiner, 2014).
Causes
The exact cause of diplegia is not known. Most cases are caused by premature birth or problems during labor and delivery, although genetic mutations and infections may also be involved (Kerschensteiner, 2014). Other factors, such as exposure to toxins or drugs during pregnancy, can also increase the risk of developing diplegia (CDC, 2021).
Diagnosis
Diplegia is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Physical examination is used to assess the child’s movement and strength, and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) can also be used to detect any abnormalities in the brain structure (Kerschensteiner, 2014).
Treatment and Management
The primary goal of treatment is to improve the child’s quality of life and maximize their functional abilities. Treatment may include physical and occupational therapy, medications, surgery, and assistive devices. Physical and occupational therapy aims to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, while medications can be used to reduce spasticity and improve range of motion (Kerschensteiner, 2014). Surgery may be necessary to correct any deformities or contractures, and assistive devices, such as braces or wheelchairs, can help the child move about more easily (CDC, 2021).
Conclusion
Diplegia is a type of cerebral palsy that affects both sides of the body in a symmetrical manner. It is characterized by spasticity and weakness in the arms and legs, resulting in difficulties with posture, balance, and coordination. The exact cause of diplegia is not known, but most cases are caused by premature birth or problems during labor and delivery. Treatment and management may include physical and occupational therapy, medications, surgery, and assistive devices.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Cerebral palsy. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/cp/facts.html
Kerschensteiner, M. (2014). Diplegia. The Lancet, 384(9950), 1230-1239. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(14)60353-9