Children with complex cerebral palsy (typically, but not always, GMFCS levels IV and V) require skilled management and extensive expertise which can be overwhelming or intimidating for many clinical practitioners.
This book explores management of the many medical comorbidities these children encounter, including orthopedic concerns, mobility and equipment needs, cognition and sensory impairment, difficult behaviors, seizures, respiratory complications and nutritional challenges, among many others.
Summary points at the end of each chapter provide at-a-glance access to key recommendations. In addition, an Appendix provides adaptable care tools to guide clinicians in evaluation, preventive care and crisis management.
Importantly, the book includes contributions from parents of children with cerebral palsy and youth with cerebral palsy, providing unique and critical wisdom for family-centred care. Parents and families of children and youth with complex cerebral palsy will particularly appreciate the inclusion of chapters on adolescence, transition to adulthood, and growing up, growing well with cerebral palsy.
Table of Contents- 1. Overview and Introduction
- 2. Functional Assessment and Goals of Management
- 3. Hypertonia
- 4. Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic Management
- 5. Seating, Mobility, and Equipment Needs
- 6. Osteoporosis and Fractures
- 7. Feeding and Nutrition
- 8. Gastrointestinal Issues
- 9. Overview of Pulmonary and Sleep Disorders in Children with Complex Cerebral Palsy
- 10. Speech and Communication
- 11. Cognitive and Sensory Impairment
- 12. Challenging Behaviors, Sleep and Toileting
- 13. Mental health in Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy
- 14. Pain and Irritability
- 15. Seizures and Epilepsy in Children with Cerebral Palsy
- 16. Urologic Issues
- 17. Adolescence and Sexuality
- 18. Transition to Adulthood
- 19. Evidence Based Care: A Tool Chest for Helping Families Navigate Treatment Options
- 20. Difficult Topics and Decision Making
- 21. Through the Eyes of Parents
- 22. Growing up, Growing Well with Cerebral Palsy
