What it is
Some people have mild difficulties, while others need a lot of support. Many people with cerebral palsy also have epilepsy, learning difficulties, or problems with speech, vision, hearing or swallowing.
There is no cure, but physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medicines for stiff muscles and sometimes surgery help people be as independent as possible.
Common signs
- Delays in reaching milestones such as sitting or walking
- Stiff or floppy muscles
- Uncontrolled or jerky movements
- Walking on tiptoes
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment of a child's development and movement
- MRI scan of the brain
- Other tests to rule out other conditions
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- MRI reports
- Therapy assessments and goals
- Equipment and orthotics details
- Medicine and injection records (such as botulinum toxin)
- School support plans
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which therapies would help most at this stage?
- What equipment or support is available?
- How will we manage the transition to adult services?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, choking, or breathing difficulty: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.