Medications may include muscle relaxants to reduce tremors and spasticity , and anticonvulsants to prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures . Surgery may be needed in some cases to release joint contractures which are a progressive problem associated with spasticity. Surgery may also be necessary for placement of feeding tubes and to control gastroesophageal reflux . The stress of coping with this disorder can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cerebral palsy - support group .
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder.
Long-term care may be required. The disorder does not affect expected length of life. The extent of disability varies. Call your health care provider if symptoms of cerebral palsy develop, especially if you know that an injury occurred during birth or early infancy. Prevention Adequate prenatal care may reduce the risk of some rare causes of cerebral palsy, however, dramatic improvements over the last 15 years in obstetrical care at delivery has not reduced the incidence of cerebral palsy.