Cerebral Palsy : Science and Clinical Practice

The only complete, scientifically rigorous, fully integrated reference giving a wide ranging and in-depth perspective on cerebral palsy and related neurodevelopment disabilities.  It considers all aspects of cerebral palsy from the causes to clinical problems and their implications for individuals. Leading scientists present the evidence on the role of pre-term birth, inflammation, hypoxia, endocrinological and other pathways. They explore opportunities for neuroprotection leading to clinical applications. An international team of experts provides clinicians and researchers with key information on the mechanisms underlying impairments in movement, development, cognition, communication, vision, feeding, behaviour, sexuality, and musculoskeletal deformities.  They present a wide range of person-centred assessment approaches, including clinical evaluation, measurement scales, neuroimaging and gait analysis. The principles of multi-disciplinary management are presented, in terms of therapist intervention, medication and surgery. The perspective of the book spans the lifelong course of cerebral palsy, taking into account worldwide differences in socio-economic and cultural factors. Many chapters are illustrated with clinical vignettes enabling direct translation into practice. Full integrated colour, with extensive cross-referencing make this a highly attractive and useful reference.