Spastic Hemiplegia Cerebral Palsy

Fact Checked

Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type of cerebral palsy, affecting between about 80% of all diagnosed cases.[1] Spastic hemiplegia cerebral palsy is one of the subtypes of spastic CP. It affects one side of the body.

About Spastic Cerebral Palsy and Subtypes

There are several types of cerebral palsy, all of which are determined based on symptoms and a formal diagnosis by a qualified physician.

There are also several different subtypes associated with spastic cerebral palsy. Along with spastic hemiplegia, other subtypes of spastic cerebral palsy include spastic diplegia (affecting the legs primarily) and spastic quadriplegia (affecting both the upper and lower body).

Spastic hemiplegia is a form of spasticity that affects one side of the body (hemiplegia). Spasticity is uncontrolled or involuntary muscle movements.[2]

What Are the Symptoms of Spastic Hemiplegia?

Spastic hemiplegia causes symptoms associated with spastic cerebral palsy, but only one side of the body:[3]

• Stiff muscles
• Awkward movements
• Delayed walking
• Walking on toes
• A shorter, thinner arm and leg on one side of the body

The severity of spastic hemiplegia symptoms varies from child to child. Cerebral palsy in itself can range from mild to severe.

For instance, some children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy can walk, whereas others must rely on a wheelchair or other assistive devices. Others may experience more muscle weakness or pain when compared to another child.

However, the good news is that, like other types and subtypes of cerebral palsy, spastic hemiplegia is not progressive, meaning the disorder itself will not worsen over time.

What Causes Spastic Hemiplegia?

Spastic hemiplegia is caused by a brain injury, specifically to the motor cortex, or dysfunction, which can happen in numerous different ways. For children with spastic hemiplegia, the disorder is sometimes caused by injuries before, during, or shortly after birth.

Acquired spastic hemiplegia means that that disorder was not genetically inherited. For example, if a physician doesn’t take action when fetal distress is detected, it could lead to brain damage, leading to spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Prematurity is another risk factor for spastic hemiplegia. Premature birth can lead to underdeveloped organs and hypoxic brain injury.

Other instances of acquired spastic hemiplegia include placental issues, failure of medical professionals to order a C-section in time, improper use of birthing tools, untreated maternal infections, untreated infant infections, or other medical conditions such as jaundice.

Spastic Hemiplegia Treatment

As with all forms of cerebral palsy, there is currently no cure for spastic hemiplegia. There are, however, many treatment options available. It’s important to discuss treatment with your child’s physician, as each cerebral palsy patient has unique needs.

The most common forms of treatment include:

• Physical and occupational therapy
• Medications
• Sensory integration
• Strength training
• Surgery
• Nutritional guidance
• Oxygen therapy
• Splinting and casting
• Botulinum toxin (BT) injections
• Speech therapy

Physical therapy is the most commonly used treatment, not only for spastic cerebral palsy but for cerebral palsy in general. For more information on treatment options available, refer to our article, Cerebral Palsy Treatment.

Keep in mind that no standard approach exists when treating spastic cerebral palsy and its subtypes. Medical professionals assess each child’s individual needs and formulate the best treatment plan.

It typically consists of a team of experts, including dietitians, pediatricians, therapists, and, if necessary, special education teachers.

Complications Associated with Spastic Hemiplegia

Spastic hemiplegia, especially without proper treatment, can lead to further complications. Many children with spastic hemiplegia are at a heightened risk of developing:

• Osteopenia
• Osteoporosis
• Fractures
• Scoliosis
• Chronic pain

It’s crucial to ensure that children with spastic hemiplegia receive proper nutrition. Due to oral motor dysfunctions, they are at risk of malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

Muscle weakness when swallowing and breathing tends to be an associated condition of spastic cerebral palsy. When materials from the mouth or stomach get into the lungs, aspiration pneumonia can develop.

What Is the Prognosis for Spastic Hemiplegia?

Management and care for a child with spastic hemiplegia can be complex. It may take a while before the most beneficial types of treatment for your child’s individual needs are fully established.

However, with the right treatment and guidance, many children with cerebral palsy adapt well. As a parent, knowing what to expect will help your child have a quality life despite limitations. If you are in doubt or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s care team.