Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement, posture and coordination. It results from a difference or injury in the developing brain before, during or shortly after birth. The original brain injury does not progressively worsen, although a person’s needs can change throughout life.
Possible Signs
- Delayed movement milestones
- Muscles that feel unusually stiff or floppy
- Weakness, involuntary movements or muscle spasms
- Difficulty with balance, walking or fine hand movements
- Differences in speech, eating or swallowing
Some people also have epilepsy, pain, vision or hearing differences, learning disability, sleep problems or difficulties with bladder and bowel control. Abilities and support needs vary widely.
Assessment
Speak to a healthcare professional if there are concerns about a child’s movement or development. Assessment includes developmental history and examination. MRI, blood tests, an electroencephalogram or other tests may be used to understand the cause and rule out other conditions. Diagnosis can take time when signs are mild.
Treatment and Support
Support is based on individual goals. It may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, mobility equipment, communication aids and educational adjustments. Medicines, injections or surgery may help manage muscle stiffness, pain, seizures, joint problems or feeding difficulties.
Regular review remains important in adulthood. New pain, reduced mobility, swallowing problems, skin damage or changes in bladder or bowel function should be assessed rather than assumed to be part of cerebral palsy.
Urgent Medical Help
Call your local emergency number for a seizure lasting several minutes, repeated seizures without recovery, severe breathing difficulty, choking, blue or grey lips or sudden loss of consciousness.
Sources
Reviewed 28 August 2026.