Cerebral Palsy (Spastic, Athetoid)
Silent Signals, Sound Answers — Understanding Hearing Beyond the Ears
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we support children with Cerebral Palsy — not just through therapy, but through thoughtful diagnosis, guidance, and family-centered care.
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a lifelong condition caused by early brain injury, affecting a child’s ability to move and control muscles.
It’s complex — but with early intervention and expert planning, many children build strength, confidence, and independence.
Our Pediatric Neurology and multidisciplinary team offers tailored management across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is a group of movement disorders caused by damage to the developing brain — often before birth, during delivery, or shortly after.
Types include:
- Spastic CP: Stiff muscles, difficulty with movement, and tight joints
- Athetoid CP: Involuntary movements, poor coordination, or variable muscle tone
Symptoms may include:
- Delayed motor milestones (sitting, crawling, walking)
- Muscle stiffness or floppiness
- Unusual posture or movement patterns
- Difficulties with balance, speech, or swallowing
The condition is non-progressive — meaning it doesn’t worsen over time — but the challenges evolve as children grow.
When Should You Seek a Neurology Evaluation?
You should consult a Pediatric Neurologist if your child:
- Shows motor delays or unusual muscle tone
- Was born prematurely or had complications at birth
- Has a confirmed diagnosis and needs therapy planning
- Seems to struggle with balance, coordination, or involuntary movements
- Needs a second opinion or updated developmental management plan
Early diagnosis helps us set up the right support from the beginning — building better outcomes over time.
How We Assess and Manage Cerebral Palsy
Here’s how we guide families through CP evaluation and care:
- Developmental and Birth History: We explore pregnancy, delivery, NICU history, and early development.
- Neurological Examination: This helps determine the type of CP and severity of motor involvement.
- Imaging and Tests: Brain MRI is often used to confirm early brain injury and guide treatment.
- Multidisciplinary Planning: We coordinate care with physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and orthopedics.
- Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups track progress and adjust goals as your child grows.
We don’t just treat movement problems — we support each child’s full potential.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Pediatric Neurologists experienced in early motor diagnosis
- Access to MRI and developmental testing when needed
- Therapy coordination from a single point of care
- Realistic, hopeful guidance for families at every stage
- Available in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
From diagnosis to long-term care, we’re with you every step.
Dr. Azhar Daoud
Consultant & Prof, Pediatric & Child Neurology
Dr. Imad Yassin
Consultant Pediatrician/ Pediatric Neurologist – FRCPCH(UK) | Facharzt, FAMAP, Pediatric Neurology Cert (Austria)
Looking for Answers About Your Child’s Movement or Muscle Tone?
If you’re seeing signs of CP — or navigating a recent diagnosis — we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It depends on the type and severity. Many children with CP do walk — sometimes with supports or therapy.
No cure, but therapies and medical support can dramatically improve function and quality of life.
Not always. Some children have normal cognitive abilities — while others may have learning needs.
Concerns can arise in the first year. Formal diagnosis often happens between 1–2 years of age.
Support needs change over time. We help families adapt and plan at every stage of development.