Question

In a child with ataxia, a form of cerebral palsy, the muscles

a) Contract excessively
b) Exhibit normal tone
c) Become rigid
d) Lack coordination

Answer 1

In a child with ataxia, a form of cerebral palsy, the muscles lack coordination. Ataxia includes a loss of voluntary movement coordination due to cerebellar damage and differs from muscle tone disorders like hypertonia and hypotonia.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a child with ataxia, which is a form of cerebral palsy, the muscles lack coordination. Ataxia is a movement disorder characterized by a loss of coordination in voluntary movements due to cerebellar damage. This condition is distinct from hypertonia (excessive muscle tone) and hypotonia (low muscle tone). Ataxia can also involve sensory deficits leading to balance problems. It is different from ALS, which results in the degeneration of motor neurons affecting muscle control and ultimately leading to paralysis.