March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
In recognition of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. is going green and raising awareness by sharing a wide spectrum of online resources designed to provide guidance, education, and support for those who are living with Cerebral Palsy (CP), as well as their families and caregivers.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
The Centers for Disease Control defines CP as a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood. Cerebral means having to do with the brain. Palsy means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects a person’s ability to control his or her muscles.
Cerebral Palsy Facts and Statistics by Cerebral Palsy Guidance
- Around 764,000 people in the U.S. (including children and adults) have at least one symptom of cerebral palsy.
- Around 10,000 babies are born each year with cerebral palsy.
- Between 1,200 and 1,500 school-aged children are diagnosed with cerebral palsy each year.
- Find more stats here.
Treatment and Care
No cure exists for CP, but some services and treatments can improve the lives of those who have Cerebral Palsy. Common treatments include:
- Medicines
- Surgery
- Braces & Assistive Devices
- Therapy – Physical, Occupational and Speech
Cerebral Palsy Online Resources and Contacts
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Cerebral Palsy Foundation
- Cerebral Palsy Resource
- United Cerebral Palsy
- UPMC Children’s Hospital - Pittsburgh Cerebral Palsy and Related Disorders Program
- World Cerebral Palsy Day
- Cerebral Palsy Guidance
- Cerebral Palsy Research Network
- Cerebral Palsy Guide
- www.healthychildren.org
- American Academy of Pediatrics
Notable CP Dates
- March (Annually) - Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
- March 25 - National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day
- October 6 – World Cerebral Palsy Day
About Union O & P
Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. is a family-owned and operated company with over 100 years of service in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. We have always been dedicated to providing the highest quality of patient care with a professional and compassionate approach. Our services and techniques are continuously being upgraded to achieve the highest standard of excellence.
Locations
Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. and De La Torre Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. now offer 19 locations throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Services may vary by location.