What it is
Cerebral palsy describes a group of lifelong movement and posture disorders caused by an injury or difference in the developing brain. Spasticity is one type of increased muscle tone. Care focuses on the child’s comfort, participation, function and prevention of complications.
Why it may be requested
- Stiffness or abnormal posture affects movement, care or comfort
- Pain, sleep, hygiene or therapy goals are affected by tone
- A child needs coordinated review with therapy, orthopaedic or rehabilitation teams
- Botulinum toxin is being considered as one part of a wider plan
What to expect
Assessment includes movement, tone, range of motion, pain, daily care, equipment and family goals. Management may involve physiotherapy, occupational therapy, orthoses, medicines, orthopaedic input or targeted botulinum toxin injections.
Approximate duration
Assessment and procedure times vary. Reception and the clinical team provide appointment-specific instructions.
How to prepare
Bring therapy reports, current splints or orthoses, medication details and clear examples of the activities or care tasks affected. Write down the family’s priority goals.
Sedation considerations
Pain relief, distraction or sedation needs depend on the child and planned procedure. If botulinum toxin is offered, the team will explain the setting, preparation, risks, aftercare and whether sedation is appropriate.
Results and reports
Goals and response should be reviewed with the wider team. Botulinum toxin is not a stand-alone cure and is used only when its expected benefit fits the child’s individual plan.