At what stage of life are cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy typically diagnosed?

Cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy are both conditions that generally manifest early in life, but they are diagnosed and often better recognized during childhood. While signs of these disorders can be observed in infancy, they may not be fully recognized until children reach an age where developmental milestones can be assessed more rigorously. By the time a child reaches preschool age, delays in motor skills or muscle function become clearer, prompting further evaluation and diagnosis.

In the case of cerebral palsy, it is characterized by motor impairment that arises from non-progressive disturbances in the developing brain, and parents and caregivers may start to notice atypical movements or developmental delays within the first few months of life. However, formal diagnosis often occurs as the child grows and is unable to achieve expected physical milestones like rolling over, sitting up, or walking.

Muscular dystrophy, on the other hand, often presents with symptoms such as muscle weakness and delayed motor skills that may also appear in infancy. However, the diagnosis typically occurs in early childhood, as children begin to engage in more physical activities, and deficiencies become more apparent.

The timing of diagnosis in childhood allows for early intervention, which is crucial for maximizing the child's potential and addressing their specific needs.