A new drug tested on rabbits, administered after birth, could lead to increased motor function for humans with cerebral palsy if further testing yields positive results. The drug, tested by researchers at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in Detroit, was successful in improving motor skills for rabbits born with cerebral palsy-like symptoms. Until now, most preventative measures against cerebral palsy only worked while the mother was in utero. Dr. Sujatha Kannan, a study researcher with NICHD, said that these new findings could indicate “a window of opportunity for treatment, even after birth.” The researchers gave the new drug to one-year-old rabbits with limited muscle movement. Five days later, the rabbits were nearly as mobile as healthy rabbits. Rabbits with similar conditions were given placebos, and their movements did not improve. Much is still unknown about the drug. The effects may not be…
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Birth Injury and Cerebral Palsy Attorneys Home
New Drug Could Improve Cerebral Palsy Motor Skills
May 4, 2012Preventing CP Child Injuries
April 30, 2012Working with kids afflicted with cerebral palsy brings about a whole set of unique challenges and provisions. Whether you are a parent, teacher or daycare provider, here are a few ways to prevent injury when caring for children with cerebral palsy. Protective Gear Children with cerebral palsy are typically prone to seizures and falls. Medical professionals recommend shoes with a strong grip (preferably a rubber tread) and a helmet if the child falls and seizes frequently. Constant Supervision Always keep an eye on activities. Professionals urge caution when activities call for sharp objects such as scissors. There are plenty of utensils, tools and toys designed specifically for children with cerebral palsy that you can take advantage of. A Safe Space Make sure the space is modified for children with cerebral palsy. This includes: Strong, heavy furniture resistant against tipping over Handrails installed in bathrooms Skid-proof surfaces on floors and underneath plates…
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Cerebral Palsy Discrimination Lawsuit Reaches India Supreme Court
April 25, 2012The case of a woman kicked off an airplane because she had cerebral palsy is approaching the India Supreme Court. Jeeja Ghosh is the director of advocacy and disability studies at the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy. She boarded a SpiceJet plane going from Kolkata to Goa on February 19. She was already in her seat when a flight attendant told her that she had to leave the plane. “I was hysterical as the flight officials did not bother to explain why they had stopped me from taking the flight,” Jeeja told The Times of India. She was on her way to attend a seminar. Ghosh, who flies regularly, said she was removed from the plane because she did not carry a “Fit to Fly” certificate. However, India’s Civil Aviation Requirements state that no one with a disability needs to carry the certificate. The certificate is only required of passengers…
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