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Cerebral Palsy

1 in 345 Children affected in the US
85-90% Cases are congenital
Up to 50% May be preventable
Written by Michael S. Porter Michael S. Porter Michael S. Porter
Founder, Managing Partner

Harvard University (B.A., 1994) | Syracuse University College of Law (J.D., 1997). Four years active duty in the U.S. Army JAG Corps. Trial attorney specializing in personal injury, medical malpractice, and product liability with over $9 million in verdicts from 2011-2014. and Reviewed by Eric C. Nordby Eric C. Nordby Eric C. Nordby
Co-Founder, Partner

Cornell University (B.A., 1987) | University at Buffalo School of Law (J.D., 1992, honors). Nearly three decades of litigation expertise in serious personal injury and wrongful death matters. President of Northern District of New York Federal Court Bar Association.

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting muscle tone, coordination, and motor skills.

CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects the ability to control muscles. The brain injury that causes cerebral palsy occurs before, during, or shortly after birth.

While the brain injury itself does not worsen over time (non-progressive), the physical symptoms and challenges can change throughout a person's life as they grow and age.

764,000
children and adults living with CP in the United States
CDC, 2024

Key Facts About Cerebral Palsy

Brain Development Disorder

CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, primarily affecting areas that control movement, balance, and posture.

Non-Progressive Condition

The brain injury itself does not worsen over time. However, symptoms and functional challenges may change as a child grows and develops.

Timing is Critical

85-90% of CP cases are congenital, meaning the brain damage occurred before or during birth. Early diagnosis and intervention significantly improve outcomes.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is classified by the type of movement disorder and the parts of the body affected. Understanding your child's specific type helps guide treatment decisions.

Spastic CP
80% of cases
Most common form characterized by stiff muscles and awkward movements. Includes diplegia (primarily legs), hemiplegia (one side), and quadriplegia (all limbs).
Dyskinetic CP
10-15% of cases
Characterized by uncontrollable movements that can be slow and writhing or rapid and jerky. May affect the face, tongue, and ability to speak.
Ataxic CP
5-10% of cases
Affects balance and depth perception, causing unsteady walking, difficulty with precise movements, and challenges with coordination.
Mixed CP
Variable percentage
Combination of two or more types, most commonly spastic and dyskinetic features together, requiring multifaceted treatment approaches.

Common Causes of Cerebral Palsy

While not all cases are preventable, many instances of CP result from complications during pregnancy, labor, or delivery that could have been avoided with proper medical care.

  • Oxygen Deprivation (Asphyxia): Lack of oxygen to the brain during labor and delivery
  • Brain Hemorrhage: Bleeding in the brain before, during, or shortly after birth
  • Infections: Maternal infections during pregnancy affecting fetal brain development
  • Premature Birth: Babies born before 37 weeks face increased CP risk
  • Medical Negligence: Failure to monitor fetal distress or delayed cesarean section
  • Jaundice/Kernicterus: Severe untreated jaundice causing brain damage
40-50%
of CP cases
may be preventable

Signs & Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

Signs of CP may appear at different ages depending on severity. Early recognition allows for earlier intervention and better outcomes.

Infant Signs (0-12 months)
  • Delays in reaching milestones (rolling, sitting, crawling)
  • Abnormal muscle tone (too stiff or too floppy)
  • Unusual postures or positions
  • Favoring one side of the body
  • Difficulty feeding or swallowing
  • Persistent hand fisting after 3-4 months
Toddler Signs (1-3 years)
  • Not walking by 18 months or abnormal gait
  • Walking on toes persistently
  • Difficulty with fine motor skills
  • Speech delays or articulation problems
  • Drooling or difficulty chewing
  • Asymmetric movements or preferences
Movement Symptoms
  • Stiff or rigid muscles (spasticity)
  • Uncontrollable movements
  • Poor coordination and balance
  • Tremors or involuntary movements
  • Difficulty with precise movements
  • Weakness in arms or legs
Associated Conditions
  • Intellectual disabilities (30-50% of cases)
  • Seizures and epilepsy (30-50% of cases)
  • Vision or hearing problems
  • Speech and communication difficulties
  • Learning disabilities
  • Behavioral or emotional challenges

Treatment & Management Options

While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, a comprehensive treatment plan can significantly improve function, independence, and quality of life. Treatment is tailored to each child's specific needs and symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Exercises and activities to improve muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and gross motor skills. Often the cornerstone of CP treatment.

Occupational Therapy

Focuses on fine motor skills, daily living activities, and adapting the environment to maximize independence in self-care and play.

Speech-Language Therapy

Addresses communication challenges, feeding difficulties, and oral motor skills. May include use of assistive communication devices.

Medications

Anti-spasticity drugs, muscle relaxants, seizure medications, and pain management to reduce symptoms and improve comfort.

Surgical Interventions

Procedures like selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR), tendon lengthening, or baclofen pump implantation for severe spasticity.

Assistive Technology

Braces, walkers, wheelchairs, communication devices, and adaptive equipment to support mobility and independence.

Resources for New York Families

New York offers extensive programs and resources specifically designed to support children with cerebral palsy and their families.

  • Early Intervention Program: Free services for children under 3 with developmental delays
  • Special Education Services: IEPs and accommodations through CPSE and CSE
  • Medical Indemnity Fund: Financial support for children with neurological birth injuries
  • Medicaid Waiver Programs: Home and community-based services for children with disabilities
  • Regional Cerebral Palsy Centers: Specialized clinics across New York State

Help Secure Your Child's Future

Find out if your family may be eligible for financial resources to help cover your child's care - therapy, equipment, and more.

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