The effect of zinc sulphate in a cerebral palsy child: A Case Report

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition characterized by permanent movement and posture disorders, affecting young children worldwide. Zinc, an essential trace element with crucial roles in immune function and neuronal development, has shown potential neuroprotective effects in preclinical studies. Despite this evidence, human trials investigating the effect of zinc in children with CP remain limited. This case study examines the impact of zinc supplementation in a four-year-old child diagnosed with moderate spastic quadriplegic CP. The patient received standard physiotherapy alongside oral zinc supplementation and a balanced diet for six months. Significant improvements were observed in motor function, muscle tone, balance, concentration, and fatigue within two weeks of zinc intervention. Continued progress was seen at four and eight weeks, indicating potential benefits of zinc as an adjunct therapy in managing CP. However, further research and larger clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings and determine optimal dosages. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge in pediatric neurology and suggests the potential role of zinc in improving outcomes for children with cerebral palsy.