Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a persons ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting about 1 in 345 children. CP is caused by abnormal development of the brain or damage to the developing brain that affects a persons ability to control their muscles. The signs of CP vary greatly because there are many different types and levels of disability. The main sign that a child might have CP is a delay reaching motor or movement milestones (such as rolling over, sitting, standing, or walking). Other signs of possible CP include stiffness, weakness, or problems with using the muscles.

Diagnosing CP at an early age is important to the well-being of children and their families. Developmental monitoring (also called surveillance) means tracking a childs growth and development over time. If any concerns about the childs development are raised during monitoring, then a developmental screening test should be given as soon as possible. After a CP diagnosis is made, a team of health professionals works with the child and family to develop a plan to help the child reach his or her full potential. Common treatments include medicines, surgery, braces, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy. No single treatment is the best one for all children with CP.

Children and adults with CP may require lifelong care with a medical care team. Besides a pediatrician or physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist) and possibly a pediatric neurologist to oversee your childs medical care, the team might include a variety of therapists and mental health specialists. These experts give special attention to the childs physical, emotional, and social development.