Shortly after birth, Chris was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a condition that challenges his mobility, balance, and posture. When he arrived at the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA (CRIT) in 2020, Chris’ gained a lot of progress in his communication skills and ability to speak up for himself and make choices independently. He uses his fine and gross motor skills in therapeutic recreation when competing against his therapists in cornhole, balloon volleyball, and bowling. Chris’ bubbly and optimistic personality allows him to succeed in therapy.
While Chris’ progress is remarkable, his path to rehabilitation is far from over. Through the kindness and generosity of people like you, Chris and many children find the strength to conquer obstacles that once seemed impossible.
Make a difference today. Your contribution of only 83¢ a day will provide hope, care, and a brighter future for children like Chris.
How Rehabilitation Supports Cerebral Palsy
By: TELETONUSA /
Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that challenge mobility, balance, and posture because it affects the part of the brain responsible for directing muscle movement. It can arise for two reasons:
When a baby’s cerebral motor cortex does not develop properly during pregnancy. For example, due to some genetic factor or health complication of the mother.
When there is any head trauma before, during, or after birth.
Both the brain damage and disability that cerebral palsy can cause are permanent. However, comprehensive care dramatically improves the quality of life of the person with cerebral palsy, supporting their well-being, self-esteem, and independence.
How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?
The signs to identify cerebral palsy tend to be variable. They can appear in the first months of life or until after two years of age. Babies with cerebral palsy often have more significant developmental challenges when learning to roll over, sit, crawl, walk, or flex their limbs.
The diagnosis of cerebral palsy requires constant developmental monitoring. However, proper diagnosis needs tests by health specialists. As for treatment, it may include medications, surgery, use of mobility aids, and rehabilitation. It is essential to mention that it differs for each person, and their needs define each patient’s prescriptions.
Although genetic issues that cause cerebral palsy cannot be modified, it is possible to prevent certain risk factors. Some measures that can contribute are:
Being vaccinated to prevent infections during pregnancy.
Medical control of diseases and health challenges before and during pregnancy.
Using car seats for babies and small children to avoid head injuries.
How many types of cerebral palsy are there?
There are four types of cerebral palsy, each needing different support and rehabilitation measures. These are:
Spastic cerebral palsy: It is the most common. It can cause increased muscle tone, difficulty in movement, and stiffness.
Dyskinetic cerebral palsy: Causes challenges controlling the arms, legs, trunk, and face movement.
Ataxic cerebral palsy: Causes challenges in balance and coordination.
Mixed cerebral palsy: It means you have a mixture of symptoms of the previous types.
Find Care at the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA
The Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA (CRIT) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering comprehensive rehabilitation services for children with neurological, muscular, and skeletal disabilities. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child develop physically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually.
From Your CRIT Counselor: Awareness is the Key
By: TELETONUSA /
Depression and anxiety are common types of mood disorders. In many cases, people face both simultaneously.
It is normal to have days when we feel sad, unmotivated, or hopeless. When we have a terrible day, we get up the next day and keep moving forward. The problem comes when those emotions affect our daily lives. We should be concerned when we no longer care about our hygiene, and we frequently call in to work because we do not feel well or activities that we used to enjoy no longer bring us happiness or comfort.
Awareness of ourselves is key. Take time to recognize when you begin to feel symptoms of anxiety or depression. How is your body reacting? Is your heart beating faster? Do you get a headache or stomach ache? Maybe your palms become sweaty, or you have chest pains. Is your constant worrying causing you to lose sleep, decrease/increase your appetite, or become easily irritated? All of these are possible symptoms.
In a society where we constantly feel pressured to do more, be more, and have more, we may sometimes feel overwhelmed. Take time for yourself – time for medical check-ups, time with family and friends, time with nature, time for hobbies and activities you enjoy. If needed, talk to your doctor or seek professional therapy. Knowing we are not okay is the key to reestablishing emotional and mental well-being.
National Walk and Roll to School Day
By: TELETONUSA /
There are many means of mobility to get to school every morning. Some kids ride the bus, while others walk, propel their wheelchair, or ride a bike or scooter. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, “unintentional pedestrian injuries are the fifth leading cause of injury-related deaths in the United States for children age 5-19.” No matter how your child gets to school, there are safety tips to be aware of to help keep them safe.
Children 10 and under should cross the street with an adult. It isn’t easy to judge the speed of a vehicle or if the car is stopping to allow you to walk across the street.
Before crossing the street, look left, right, and left again.
Always use sidewalks and paths if available. Cross at street corners, with traffic signals and crosswalks.
If sidewalks are unavailable, walk facing traffic as far left as possible.
Do not use phones or headphones when walking or propelling a wheelchair; this may distract, impair hearing, and decrease a child’s attention to their surroundings.
Many kids walk to school before the sun comes out. Wear reflective backpacks, bright-colored clothing/vests, or lights to make your child more visible to a passing vehicle.
When riding a bicycle or scooter, children must wear a properly fitting helmet.
If your child is walking to school alone or with a friend, take the time to educate them on safety with walking/riding to school. Be a role model and follow the steps to set an example for your children. Remember these tips daily, especially on Wednesday, October 4th, as it is National Walk and Roll to School Day!
