Cerebral palsy

Overview

CP is caused by brain differences before, during, or soon after birth.

Each child's abilities are different.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Stiff or floppy muscles
• Delayed sitting or walking

Less common

• Trouble speaking
• Seizures

Look up a symptom: Child not talking or meeting milestones · Muscle cramp or charley horse · Muscle weakness in arms or legs · Trouble with balance or walking

When to get medical care

Causes

Brain injury or differences early in life.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Premature birth
• Low birth weight

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Development check:
• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Use mobility aids

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Keep a regular sleep schedule and don't skip meals.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine if they make symptoms worse.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults with CP: Need ongoing care for pain and mobility.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Which therapies should my child have?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cerebral palsy