Cerebral Palsy FAQs

When a child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy, parents often have many questions about what this diagnosis means, what caused it, and what to expect in the years ahead. Understanding cerebral palsy can help families make informed decisions about treatment, therapy, and long-term care. This page provides clear, medically accurate answers to the most common questions about cerebral palsy, with a focus on helping families in New York and across the United States navigate this journey with knowledge and confidence.

What is cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy, often abbreviated as CP, is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. The word “cerebral” refers to the brain, and “palsy” means weakness or difficulty using the muscles. CP results from abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, and it affects the parts of the brain that control movement, coordination, and posture.

CP is the most common motor disability in childhood. In the United States, approximately 1 in 345 children are affected by cerebral palsy, which translates to about 1 to 4 cases per 1,000 live births. While the condition affects each child differently, cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that does not worsen over time because the brain damage that causes it is non-progressive.

What causes cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the brain that occurs while the brain is still developing. This damage affects the areas of the brain responsible for controlling muscles and movement. The brain damage can happen at different times:

• Before birth, during pregnancy
• During labor and delivery
• Within the first month after birth
• During the first few years of life while the brain is still developing

Most cases of cerebral palsy are congenital, meaning they are related to events that occurred before or during birth. Congenital CP accounts for about 85% to 90% of all cerebral palsy cases. Acquired CP, which occurs more than 28 days after birth, is usually associated with infections like meningitis or head injuries.

It’s important to understand that many older beliefs about what causes cerebral palsy have been disproven by research. For example, while lack of oxygen during birth can cause brain damage in some cases, it accounts for only a small percentage of cerebral palsy cases. In many situations, the exact cause remains unknown, even after comprehensive medical investigation.

What are the different types of cerebral palsy?

Doctors classify cerebral palsy according to the main type of movement disorder a child experiences. There are four primary types:

Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common form, affecting about 77% to 80% of people with CP. Children with spastic CP have increased muscle tone, which makes their movements stiff and awkward. Spastic CP is further divided into subtypes based on which parts of the body are affected. Spastic diplegia primarily affects the legs, spastic hemiplegia affects one side of the body, and spastic quadriplegia affects all four limbs as well as the trunk and face.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy involves problems controlling the movement of the hands, arms, feet, and legs. Children with this type experience movements that are difficult to control and may be slow and writhing or rapid and jerky. These involuntary movements often become more noticeable when the child is trying to move or is feeling emotional stress.

Ataxic cerebral palsy affects balance and coordination. Children with ataxic CP may appear unsteady when walking, have difficulty with quick movements or movements that require precise control, and may have trouble with tasks that require fine motor skills like writing or buttoning clothes.

Mixed cerebral palsy occurs when a child shows symptoms of more than one type. The most common combination is spastic and dyskinetic CP.

What are the risk factors for cerebral palsy?

While cerebral palsy can occur without any identifiable risk factors, research has identified several factors that increase the likelihood of a child developing CP:

Prematurity and low birth weight are among the strongest risk factors. Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation, and especially those born before 32 weeks, have a higher risk of cerebral palsy. Similarly, babies with a birth weight under 2,500 grams (about 5.5 pounds) are at increased risk.

Multiple births such as twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples carry a higher risk, partly because these pregnancies are more likely to result in premature birth or low birth weight.

Infections during pregnancy can damage the developing fetal brain. These include cytomegalovirus, rubella, herpes, toxoplasmosis, and Zika virus. When a pregnant mother develops one of these infections, the risk to the developing baby increases.

Severe jaundice and kernicterus can lead to cerebral palsy if not treated promptly. Kernicterus is a type of brain damage that can result when severe jaundice goes untreated, allowing bilirubin to build up to toxic levels.

Birth complications including problems with the placenta, uterine rupture, or umbilical cord complications can potentially reduce oxygen flow to the baby’s brain.

Maternal health conditions such as thyroid problems, seizure disorders, or preeclampsia can increase risk.

Congenital anomalies are present in about one-quarter of children with cerebral palsy. Recent studies show that 23% of children with CP have a major congenital anomaly, particularly affecting the brain or heart.

How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?

Diagnosing cerebral palsy is a process that takes time and involves multiple steps. Because CP affects children differently and symptoms may not be immediately obvious, diagnosis often occurs gradually as a child grows and developmental delays become more apparent.

Developmental monitoring is the first step, where parents and healthcare providers observe how a child is growing and whether they are meeting typical developmental milestones. Parents who notice that their baby isn’t rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or walking when expected should discuss these concerns with their pediatrician.

Developmental screening involves more formal assessment at specific ages. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening all children for developmental delays at 9 months, 18 months, and 24 or 30 months. During these screenings, healthcare providers specifically look for motor delays that might indicate cerebral palsy.

Developmental and medical evaluations are conducted by specialists, often including pediatric neurologists, developmental pediatricians, or physiatrists. These doctors carefully examine motor skills, muscle tone, reflexes, and posture. They observe how a child moves and responds to various physical tasks.

Brain imaging provides critical information about the brain’s structure. MRI scans are particularly useful for identifying areas of damage or abnormal development. CT scans or cranial ultrasounds may also be used, especially in newborns.

Additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or identify related problems. These can include EEG testing to check for seizure activity, genetic testing, or metabolic testing.

CP is generally diagnosed during the first or second year of life. However, when symptoms are mild, a diagnosis may not be made until a child is older and more subtle developmental differences become noticeable. Some children are not diagnosed until age three or four.

Can cerebral palsy be prevented?

The honest answer is that many cases of cerebral palsy cannot be prevented because the causes are not fully understood or are beyond our control. However, there are important steps that can reduce the risk:

Before and during pregnancy, women can take several protective measures. Getting vaccinated against infections like rubella and chickenpox before becoming pregnant helps prevent infections that can harm a developing baby. Early and regular prenatal care allows healthcare providers to monitor both mother and baby, identify potential problems early, and manage any health conditions that arise. Treating maternal infections promptly and managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can protect the baby’s developing brain.

For women undergoing fertility treatments, discussing ways to reduce the likelihood of multiple pregnancies can help, since multiples carry higher risks for prematurity and low birth weight.

One specific preventive measure that has shown promise is the administration of magnesium sulfate to mothers who are likely to deliver before 32 weeks of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends this treatment because research shows it provides neuroprotection to the baby’s brain.

After birth, prompt medical care can prevent some cases of acquired cerebral palsy. Screening newborns for jaundice and treating severe jaundice quickly prevents kernicterus. Vaccinating infants against infections that can cause meningitis and encephalitis provides important protection. Taking precautions to prevent head injuries and treating infections promptly also helps protect young children’s developing brains.

Is there a cure for cerebral palsy?

Currently, there is no cure for cerebral palsy. The brain damage that causes CP has already occurred and cannot be reversed. However, this does not mean that nothing can be done or that children with CP cannot lead fulfilling lives.

The condition itself does not worsen over time because the underlying brain damage is non-progressive. It does not spread or deteriorate. This stability is actually an important characteristic that distinguishes cerebral palsy from progressive neurological disorders.

While the brain damage cannot be undone, treatment can make a significant difference in a child’s abilities and quality of life. Many children with cerebral palsy make remarkable progress with appropriate therapy and intervention. Early treatment generally produces the best outcomes, which is why early diagnosis and immediate enrollment in therapy programs are so important.

What treatments are available for cerebral palsy?

Treatment for cerebral palsy is highly individualized because each child’s symptoms and needs are different. A comprehensive treatment plan typically involves multiple approaches:

Physical therapy is considered the most important treatment for most children with cerebral palsy. Physical therapists work with children to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility. They teach exercises and stretches that help prevent muscles from becoming too tight and joints from becoming stiff. Physical therapy often begins in infancy and continues throughout childhood and sometimes into adulthood.

Occupational therapy focuses on helping children develop the skills they need for daily activities. Occupational therapists work on tasks like dressing, eating, writing, and playing. They may also recommend adaptive equipment that makes these activities easier.

Speech and language therapy addresses communication difficulties and helps children develop language skills. Speech therapists also work with children who have swallowing problems, which are common in cerebral palsy. They can teach safe swallowing techniques and recommend dietary modifications when necessary.

Medications play an important role in managing symptoms. Muscle relaxants like diazepam, baclofen, or tizanidine can reduce spasticity throughout the body. Botulinum toxin injections target specific muscles that are particularly tight or spastic, providing temporary relief that allows for better movement and more effective physical therapy. For children who experience seizures, anti-seizure medications are prescribed.

Surgical interventions may be recommended when other treatments are not sufficient. Orthopedic procedures can lengthen muscles and tendons that have become too tight, correct bone abnormalities, or stabilize joints. These surgeries can significantly improve a child’s ability to walk or use their hands. Selective dorsal rhizotomy is a neurosurgical procedure that reduces spasticity in the legs by cutting specific nerve fibers in the spinal cord.

Assistive devices and technology expand what children with CP can do. Braces and orthotics support weak muscles and keep joints in proper alignment. Walkers, canes, and wheelchairs provide mobility. Communication devices help children who have difficulty speaking express themselves. Computers and tablets with specialized software can assist with education and communication.

What is the life expectancy for people with cerebral palsy?

Life expectancy for people with cerebral palsy varies considerably depending on the severity of the condition and associated health problems.

For individuals with mild cerebral palsy, life expectancy is similar to that of the general population. More than 80% of people with mild CP live beyond age 58, and many live normal lifespans with appropriate medical care and support.

For those with severe cerebral palsy and significant impairments, life expectancy is reduced. Children with the most serious limitations have about a 40% chance of reaching age 20. However, it’s important to note that survival rates for people with severe CP have been improving steadily as medical care, nutrition, and supportive treatments have advanced.

Several factors influence life expectancy in cerebral palsy. The severity of motor impairment is one of the most significant factors. The presence of intellectual disability, epilepsy that is difficult to control, serious feeding and swallowing difficulties, and respiratory problems all affect long-term outcomes. Children who are able to walk, communicate, and eat independently generally have better health and longer life expectancy than those who cannot.

Medical advances continue to improve outcomes for people with cerebral palsy. Better management of seizures, improved nutrition strategies, more effective treatment of respiratory problems, and advances in orthopedic care all contribute to longer, healthier lives.

Can people with cerebral palsy walk?

Whether a person with cerebral palsy can walk depends on the type and severity of their condition. Doctors use the Gross Motor Function Classification System, or GMFCS, to describe five levels of motor function in cerebral palsy:

GMFCS Levels I and II describe children with mild cerebral palsy who can walk independently without assistive devices. These children can usually participate in most physical activities, though they may have some limitations in speed, balance, or coordination.

GMFCS Level III represents moderate impairment. Children at this level can walk with assistive devices like walkers or crutches. Their ability to walk longer distances or on uneven terrain may be limited, and they might use a wheelchair for some situations.

GMFCS Levels IV and V indicate more severe motor impairment. Children at these levels typically cannot walk independently and rely on wheelchairs for mobility. Some children at Level IV may be able to take steps with significant physical support or use powered mobility devices.

Overall, research shows that more than half of all children with cerebral palsy (about 59%) can walk independently. This statistic reminds us that cerebral palsy exists on a wide spectrum, and many children achieve functional mobility with appropriate treatment and support.

Walking ability can also change and improve over time, especially with consistent physical therapy. Some children who initially use assistive devices may eventually walk independently, while others may find that using a wheelchair gives them greater independence and allows them to participate more fully in activities rather than struggling to walk short distances.

What other conditions commonly occur with cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy rarely occurs in isolation. Many children with CP have additional conditions that require attention and treatment:

Seizures and epilepsy affect between 30% and 50% of children with cerebral palsy. The same brain damage that causes CP can also create conditions that make seizures more likely. Fortunately, seizures can usually be controlled with medication.

Intellectual disability is present in about half of children with cerebral palsy. The severity ranges from mild to profound. It’s important to note that intellectual disability does not always accompany CP, and many people with cerebral palsy have typical or above-average intelligence. Physical limitations should never be assumed to indicate intellectual limitations.

Vision problems occur frequently in children with CP. These can include strabismus (crossed eyes), difficulty focusing, or more serious vision impairment. Regular eye examinations are important to identify and treat these issues.

Hearing loss ranging from moderate to severe affects some children with cerebral palsy. Hearing should be tested regularly, especially in young children, since undetected hearing loss can significantly affect language development.

Speech and communication difficulties affect more than half of children with CP. Some have dysarthria, which means the muscles used for speech are difficult to control, making speech unclear even though language comprehension is normal. Others may have more complex language difficulties.

Feeding and swallowing problems, medically termed dysphagia, affect between 31% and 99% of children with CP, depending on severity. These problems can lead to inadequate nutrition, difficulty gaining weight, and increased risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway). Speech therapists and feeding specialists can provide crucial support.

Autism spectrum disorder co-occurs with cerebral palsy in about 1 in 10 children. When both conditions are present, children face additional challenges with social communication and behavior that require specialized intervention.

Where can families find support in New York?

Families in New York have access to numerous resources designed to support children with cerebral palsy and their caregivers:

The New York State Department of Health administers the Early Intervention Program for children from birth to age three. This program provides coordinated therapy services, often delivered in the child’s home, at no cost to families. Services can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and special instruction.

The New York State Education Department oversees special education services for older children. The Preschool Special Education Program (Section 4410) serves children ages three to five, while school-age special education serves children from kindergarten through age 21. These programs provide therapy services, adapted instruction, and support to help children with disabilities access education.

Leading medical centers throughout New York offer specialized cerebral palsy programs. In New York City, Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, and Columbia Presbyterian’s Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center provide comprehensive care. Albany Medical Center serves families in upstate New York. These centers offer coordinated care from teams of specialists including neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors, and therapists.

The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) provides care coordination, family support services, and connections to community resources for individuals with cerebral palsy and their families throughout New York State.

United Cerebral Palsy of New York City and other community-based organizations offer programs, resources, and support groups that connect families with others who understand the challenges and joys of raising a child with cerebral palsy.

NYBirthInjury.com exists to help families access trusted information about cerebral palsy and connect with qualified medical and support resources. Understanding your child’s diagnosis and the services available can make the journey ahead feel more manageable.

Moving forward with knowledge and hope

Receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis for your child brings many emotions and questions. While this diagnosis means your family will face certain challenges, it does not define your child’s potential or future happiness. Children with cerebral palsy grow up to lead meaningful lives, form loving relationships, pursue education, and contribute to their communities in countless ways.

The medical and therapeutic resources available today are more advanced than ever before. Early intervention, consistent therapy, appropriate medical care, and family support can help your child develop their abilities and achieve their personal goals. As you move forward, remember that you are not alone. Countless families have walked this path, and a community of healthcare providers, therapists, educators, and support organizations stands ready to help your family navigate the journey ahead.