Cerebral palsy is a permanent, non-progressive neurological condition that affects posture, movement, balance, and—in some cases—cognitive function. It typically develops due to brain injury or abnormal brain formation before birth, though a small percentage of cases occur after birth. While the condition is considered rare, it still affects several thousands of newborns each year.

Symptoms vary widely based on the type and severity of cerebral palsy. Common challenges include coordination difficulties, muscle stiffness, balance issues, and occasional seizures. Although there is no cure, a combination of medication, therapy, and supportive care can significantly improve quality of life.

Understanding The Types Of Cerebral Palsy

There are four main types of cerebral palsy. Each type reflects the primary movement pattern and helps guide treatment planning.

Spastic cerebral palsy
This is the most common form. It causes muscle stiffness in one or more limbs, making movement difficult and sometimes painful.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy
Marked by uncontrollable movements, this type involves slow or sudden twisting motions of the arms, legs, hands, or feet. Speech and walking can also be difficult.

Ataxic cerebral palsy
People with this form often have poor coordination and trouble performing tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothing.

Mixed cerebral palsy
A combination of symptoms from multiple types. For example, someone may experience both spasticity and involuntary movements simultaneously.

Cerebral Palsy Symptoms

Most diagnoses occur during infancy or early childhood, especially when children do not meet expected motor milestones. Symptoms typically stabilize once the child reaches early school age.

Common signs include:

  • Trouble with balance and coordination

  • Reduced hand dexterity

  • Hip discomfort or pain

  • Difficulty walking or inability to walk

  • Muscle weakness in the limbs

  • Challenges with learning or cognitive processing

Symptom severity ranges significantly. Some individuals require minimal support, while others rely on mobility aids or assistive devices. Healthcare professionals often use the Gross Motor Function Classification System to determine severity and guide long-term care planning.

What Causes Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy generally results from damage or abnormal development in the areas of the brain responsible for movement. This disruption affects how signals are sent to the muscles, leading to stiffness, involuntary motions, or coordination challenges.

Although brain injury is recognized as the main cause, only a portion of affected individuals receive a confirmed explanation. Factors that may contribute include:

  • Injury to the brain regions that control movement

  • Bleeding in the brain caused by stroke or clotting disorders

  • Low oxygen levels before or during birth

  • Brain infections such as meningitis or encephalitis

  • Certain medications taken during pregnancy

  • Poor fetal growth due to inadequate nutrition or oxygen

  • Genetic variations affecting brain development

Risk Factors

Certain conditions or events increase the likelihood of cerebral palsy developing before or shortly after birth. These include:

  • Multiple births (twins, triplets, or more)

  • Infections during pregnancy

  • Premature birth or low birth weight

  • High blood pressure, fever, or seizures during pregnancy

  • Blood clotting disorders

  • Difficult or traumatic deliveries

Diagnosis

If a baby shows delayed motor development or other concerns, early evaluation is important. Most diagnoses occur within the first two years of life.

Diagnostic tools include:

motor skills tests – Assess posture, coordination, muscle tone, and general development
laboratory tests – Rule out other conditions that may appear similar
imaging tests – MRI or cranial ultrasound to identify brain differences or injuries

Cerebral palsy does not worsen over time, but early diagnosis supports better outcomes through timely therapies and interventions.

Treatment Options

There is no cure, but treatments can greatly improve mobility, independence, and daily comfort.

Prescription Medications

muscle relaxants
Botulinum toxin (Botox) is commonly injected into tight muscles to reduce stiffness. Other medications such as baclofen or diazepam may also help improve flexibility and comfort.

Some severe cases may require a surgically implanted pump to deliver medication directly to the spinal cord, providing more consistent symptom relief.

Therapies

physical therapy
Improves mobility, balance, and strength through targeted stretching and strengthening exercises.

occupational therapy
Helps individuals perform daily tasks more effectively—such as dressing, writing, or using tools for school or work.

speech and language therapy
Supports communication ability and helps strengthen the muscles used for swallowing and speaking.

Therapists may also recommend assistive devices like walkers, communication tools, special seating, or writing aids.

Surgical Interventions

For certain individuals, surgery may provide better control of muscle stiffness.
selective dorsal rhizotomy is the most common procedure, reducing stiffness by cutting overactive nerves that contribute to spasticity. This can lead to improved motor control and greater independence.

Prevention

Although not all cases can be prevented, certain steps during pregnancy may help lower risk:

  • Staying current with vaccinations

  • Treating infections promptly

  • Ensuring consistent prenatal care

Because some causes remain unknown, even those who follow all preventive steps may still have a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Related Conditions

While cerebral palsy primarily affects movement, it may also increase the risk of other health concerns:

  • Higher likelihood of ADHD, anxiety, or depression

  • Seizures or learning disabilities

  • Reduced bone density, which raises the risk of osteoporosis

Living With Cerebral Palsy

Life expectancy varies depending on the severity of symptoms and access to treatment. Many individuals with mild symptoms live as long as those without the condition. Advances in therapy, assistive devices, and medical care continue to improve long-term outcomes.

Living with cerebral palsy can be fulfilling when supported by early intervention, personalized care plans, and a strong network of specialists, caregivers, and community resources.