Use of Tools for Early Detection of Cerebral Palsy

High risk of infant is defined as an infant who has a history of negative environmental and biological factors and these factors can cause neuromotor development problems. This group is a heterogeneous group that includes premature babies born under thirty-seven weeks, term babies with low birth weight (LBW), or babies with developmental delays for various reasons. These infants are also monitored for Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP is the most common physical disability in childhood, with an incidence of 2.1 per 1000 births.In a 2017 clinical review of early diagnosis tools, a group of international experts published best practice recommendations, calling for early diagnosis to be made as a result of timely use of the recommended tools. The diagnosis of CP is typically made by a physician between 12 and 24 months of age, but in some cases it is delayed until 42 months.Correct and early use of the key tools required for early diagnosis may allow much earlier detection of CP for infants younger than 5 months or older.Early detection and monitoring of infants in the community for CP is essential only with appropriate, valid and reliable tools in order to minimize possible sequelae through timely implementation of CP-specific interventions. According to international guidelines, babies with high risk of CP should be followed up. This follow-up should be done by an interdisciplinary team such as neonatologist, pediatrician, pediatric neurologist, physiotherapist, speech-language-swallowing therapist, and special education specialist. Pediatric physiotherapists are an important part of this team in terms of developmental follow-up and rehabilitation. Therefore, it is important that the awareness level of pediatric physiotherapists in this field in our country is sufficient, they are equipped with various trainings and reach the international level. In this way, families at risk of CP can provide early guidance for their children, ensure early diagnosis of CP, and initiate treatm