Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong neurological disorder that affects posture, balance, muscle coordination, and movement. It results from damage to the developing brain, either before birth, during delivery, or shortly after. While the condition is non-progressive—meaning it does not worsen over time—the symptoms can vary and may change in nature as a person ages.

Cerebral palsy is relatively rare, occurring in approximately 3 out of every 1,000 live births. Depending on the type and severity, individuals with CP may experience anything from mild physical challenges to profound motor impairment, often requiring specialized therapies and support.

Types of cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is categorized into four main types, based on the kind of motor impairments a person experiences. Knowing the type helps guide personalized treatment and rehabilitation strategies.

Spastic cerebral palsy
This is the most common form, seen in about 80% of cases. It causes muscle stiffness and tightness, especially in the legs, arms, or both. Movement can be jerky and difficult due to excessive muscle tone.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy
People with this type experience involuntary movements, which may be slow, twisting, or repetitive. The movements often affect the face, arms, and legs, and can make it difficult to walk, sit, or speak clearly.

Ataxic cerebral palsy
This form involves problems with balance and coordination. People with ataxic CP may struggle with fine motor tasks such as writing or buttoning clothes. Movements may appear shaky or unsteady.

Mixed cerebral palsy
Some individuals exhibit symptoms from more than one type of CP, resulting in a mixed diagnosis. The most common combination is spastic and dyskinetic symptoms.

Key symptoms

Symptoms of cerebral palsy usually appear in infancy or early childhood, often becoming noticeable when a child misses typical developmental milestones. The severity and pattern of symptoms can vary widely:

  • Muscle stiffness or floppiness

  • Poor coordination and balance

  • Delayed motor skills (rolling, sitting, crawling, walking)

  • Involuntary movements or tremors

  • Weakness in arms or legs

  • Difficulty with speech or swallowing

  • Seizures or intellectual delays (in some cases)

The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) is commonly used by healthcare providers to evaluate the severity of cerebral palsy. It helps categorize how well a child can move, stand, or walk, which in turn informs treatment plans.

What causes cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the developing brain, often affecting the areas that control movement and coordination. This damage can occur at various stages:

  • Prenatal (before birth): due to infections, lack of oxygen, or brain malformations

  • Perinatal (during birth): due to traumatic delivery or complications like umbilical cord issues

  • Postnatal (after birth): due to infections like meningitis or head injury

While many cases are linked to these events, in nearly 80% of individuals with cerebral palsy, the exact cause cannot be identified. Other contributing factors may include:

  • Brain hemorrhages (often linked to premature birth)

  • Restricted oxygen supply (birth asphyxia)

  • Genetic abnormalities affecting brain development

  • Maternal infections during pregnancy (e.g., toxoplasmosis, rubella)

  • Exposure to certain medications or toxins

  • Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)

Risk factors

Certain conditions can increase the likelihood of a baby developing cerebral palsy, especially when multiple factors overlap:

  • Premature birth (before 37 weeks gestation)

  • Low birth weight

  • Multiple births (twins, triplets)

  • Maternal health complications (e.g., preeclampsia, seizures)

  • Infections during pregnancy

  • Complicated or prolonged labor

  • Lack of prenatal care

  • Blood clotting disorders

  • Genetic conditions affecting the brain or nervous system

Recognizing these risk factors allows for early monitoring and intervention, which can improve outcomes significantly.

How cerebral palsy is diagnosed

Cerebral palsy is usually diagnosed within the first two years of life, although milder forms may take longer to confirm. Diagnosis involves a thorough review of development, motor milestones, and neurological function.

Diagnostic steps include:

Physical exams
Doctors look for signs like unusual muscle tone (too stiff or floppy), reflex delays, asymmetrical movements, or delayed motor development.

Developmental screening
Milestones such as sitting, crawling, or walking are assessed. Delays may prompt further evaluation.

Neuroimaging

  • MRI: Offers detailed brain images to detect structural anomalies or injury

  • Cranial ultrasound: Often used in premature infants to assess for bleeding or fluid buildup

  • CT scans: Can show structural brain changes

Lab tests and genetic screening
These may be used to rule out other conditions that mimic cerebral palsy or identify genetic causes.

Early and accurate diagnosis enables timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.

Available treatments

While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, a range of treatments can help manage symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. The best outcomes often involve a multidisciplinary approach.

Medications

Used to reduce muscle stiffness, spasms, or associated conditions such as seizures:

  • Botox injections: Temporarily relax overactive muscles

  • Baclofen: A muscle relaxant, sometimes delivered via a pump implanted near the spine

  • Diazepam (Valium): Reduces muscle tone and anxiety

  • Anticonvulsants: For seizure control

Physical therapy (PT)

Essential for improving mobility, strength, and flexibility. PT includes:

  • Stretching and resistance training

  • Gait training and posture correction

  • Range-of-motion exercises

Occupational therapy (OT)

Focuses on helping individuals perform daily tasks independently, such as:

  • Eating, dressing, grooming

  • Using assistive devices (utensils, braces)

Speech and language therapy (SLP)

Targets communication issues and swallowing difficulties. Techniques may include:

  • Oral motor exercises

  • Alternative communication devices (AAC)

  • Feeding therapy

Surgical interventions

In severe cases, surgery may be needed to:

  • Lengthen muscles or tendons

  • Correct bone deformities

  • Implant devices for drug delivery (e.g., baclofen pump)

  • Perform selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) to reduce spasticity

Can cerebral palsy be prevented?

In many cases, cerebral palsy is not preventable, especially when the cause is unknown. However, some actions during pregnancy and childbirth can reduce the risk:

  • Get regular prenatal care

  • Vaccinate against infections (e.g., rubella)

  • Avoid exposure to harmful substances

  • Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension

  • Address infections during pregnancy promptly

  • Reduce premature birth risk through prenatal monitoring

  • Plan for safe delivery with medical support

While not all cases can be avoided, these steps support a healthier pregnancy and lower the likelihood of brain injury in infants.

Conditions linked to cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy can sometimes lead to or coexist with other health concerns:

  • Seizure disorders: Epilepsy is common, particularly in those with severe brain injury.

  • Cognitive disabilities: Some children may have learning difficulties or developmental delays.

  • Mental health disorders: Higher risk of anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

  • Vision or hearing impairments

  • Osteoporosis: Weaker bones due to low mobility and reduced weight-bearing activity.

  • Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Poor posture and weak abdominal muscles can worsen acid reflux.

  • Nutritional challenges: Difficulty swallowing or feeding may affect weight and growth.

A multidisciplinary team can help manage these related conditions and improve long-term outcomes.

Living well with cerebral palsy

Many people with cerebral palsy live fulfilling lives—working, forming relationships, and participating actively in their communities. Early intervention, proper medical care, education, and assistive technology all play a role in enhancing independence and well-being.

Tips for daily living:

  • Use adaptive tools to support independence

  • Create a physical environment that’s accessible and safe

  • Stay socially active to support mental health

  • Regularly update treatment plans with your care team

  • Explore support groups or community resources for emotional support

Advancements in therapy, mobility aids, and education have made it increasingly possible for people with CP to reach their full potential.

Frequently asked questions

Is cerebral palsy genetic?
Most cases are not inherited, but some may involve genetic abnormalities that affect brain development.

Does cerebral palsy worsen over time?
The brain injury does not worsen, but symptoms may change with age, especially without proper management.

Can adults develop cerebral palsy?
No. CP results from early brain injury. However, undiagnosed childhood cases may be discovered later in life.

Can people with CP have children?
Yes. Many adults with cerebral palsy lead full lives, including becoming parents, with the right support and planning.

Is cerebral palsy contagious?
No. CP is not infectious or contagious in any way.