What is it about?
Although there are more adults with cerebral palsy than children with cerebral palsy, little is known about their needs throughout their lifespan. This paper collates the problems of adults with cerebral palsy, especially their musculoskeletal problems, from two large centers that care for adults with disabilities.
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Why is it important?
Pediatric specialists often stop seeing patients when they turn 18 or 21. Adult specialists have little training in caring for adults with childhood-onset disabilities. Typical problems such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer screening are often ignored as somehow adults with "disabilities" are different. This large population of patients is often ignored because of lack of access, public insurance programs and ignorance on the part of adult providers.
Perspectives
We have had a lifespan clinic at our children's hospital since 1995 and have seen over 5000 adults. The patients and their families are so grateful that there are providers (orthopedic surgeons and physiatrists) who are familiar with their disorders and needs (surgery, equipment, therapy, etc).
Henry Chambers
Rady Children's Hospital San Diego
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Management and treatment of musculoskeletal problems in adults with cerebral palsy: Experience gained from two lifespan clinics, Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, March 2024, IOS Press,
DOI: 10.3233/prm-240018.
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