Athetoid cerebral palsy is one of several forms of this chronic condition. CP is caused by damage to the brain during pregnancy, during labor or delivery, or because of an injury sustained in early childhood.

People affected by athetoid cerebral palsy have damage in the basal ganglia area of the brain. The basal ganglia is responsible for coordination and body posture; therefore, this form of the condition is characterized by involuntary movement that can affect the limbs and face. Those affected may have difficulty grasping objects, speaking, eating and reaching. They often have trouble coordinating walking or even sitting. According to About-Cerebral-Palsy.org, the symptoms are most present during times of anxiety and sometimes wane during sleep.

CerebralPalsySource.com explains that athetoid CP occurs in approximately 25 percent of cerebral palsy cases. Muscles alternate between being tense and limp. This problem can cause movements to appear jerky and random. Speech is always affected to some extend in people with athetoid CP because of the difficulty with coordinating the tongue, vocal cords and breathing. This issue can also cause eating challenges and drooling. Beginning physical therapy soon after diagnosis is often very helpful for those with athetoid CP.

Cerebral palsy is a condition that is often preventable. If you have a child affected by cerebral palsy that was likely caused by a medical error you should speak to a qualified attorney. Our team deals with birth injury and medical malpractice cases and can offer you a free assessment of your case.