Sleep Disturbances and Disorders in Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: A Narrative Review

TL;DR

This review explores how children and teens with cerebral palsy experience sleep problems more often than others, which affects their quality of life and behavior.

Contribution

The paper provides an updated narrative review of recent research on sleep disturbances in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

Findings

Sleep disturbances are more common in children with cerebral palsy compared to typically developing children.

Sleep issues are linked to behavior, pain, comorbidities, and lower quality of life in this population.

Treatment approaches align with those used for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Children and adolescents with cerebral palsy experience multiple associated comorbidities or impairments that impact their day-to-day life and psychosocial functioning. Sleep difficulties, disturbances, or disorders are a widely recognized concern for youth with cerebral palsy. We aimed to provide an updated narrative review of the most recent research on sleep disturbances or disorders in youth with cerebral palsy. Methods: A search of the literature cited in the PubMed database published between August of 2019 and August of 2024 was completed, and relevant articles were reviewed. Results: Relevant areas included the prevalence and type of sleep concerns seen in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy in addition to the relationship with sleep concerns and behavior, pain, comorbidities, physical activity, quality of life, and impact on caregivers. Sleep disturbances and disorders occur at a higher frequency in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy with adverse impact on their quality of life. Sleep concerns appear to be associated with several associated concerns. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances occur at a higher frequency in youth with cerebral palsy and are associated with a wide range of conditions, symptoms, and impact on quality of life. Treatment recommendations are in line with typically developing children or children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Future directions for research are identified.

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