Complementary Neuromotor Examination Of High-Risk Newborns For Cerebral-Palsy - Why - How

In many cases the traditional neurological examination of high risk newborns for neurological problems secondary to perinatal difficulties does not identify easily the absence or the presence of cerebral palsy before walking. To help the neuromoteur follow up in these children, the authors suggest a complementary neuromotor examination that is successful only in normal infants. This examination is done in front of a mirror in the presence of the parents in order to increase the attention of the child, whose participation is necessary for a successful examination. Two motor responses are evaluated: the lateral support on, alternately, right and left superior limbs, and the lateral abduction reaction of the hip of each limb. When normal these two motor responses allow an early affirmation of integrity of motor paths if the examination is performed under carefully controlled conditions.