Name a common set of secondary musculoskeletal impairments seen in CP.

Learn about Cerebral Palsy Impairments, Assessments, and Interventions. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In cerebral palsy, secondary problems often develop in the musculoskeletal system due to long-standing abnormal movement, muscle imbalance, and spasticity. The most common cluster of these structural impairments includes contractures (shortening of muscles and soft tissues leading to limited joint range), scoliosis (spinal curvature from asymmetric trunk control and pelvic position), hip dislocation or dysplasia (hip instability and abnormal development of the femoral head and acetabulum), and tibial torsion (inward twisting of the tibia from altered gait and leg alignment). Together, these issues directly affect alignment, mobility, and function and are classic musculoskeletal sequelae in CP.

Seizures and cognitive impairment are neurological/cognitive associations, not musculoskeletal changes. Visual deficits and respiratory problems can occur in CP but do not represent the common set of secondary musculoskeletal impairments described above.