What is Cerebral Palsy?

 

 

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a condition that affects a person’s arms, legs, and how they move. It can affect how someone sits, walks, stands, and moves around.

• Some people with CP may have difficulty doing some of these things, some may have trouble with all, and others may have only mild issues.
• CP usually affects the brain and how it controls muscles and movement.
• It mostly happens during birth or soon after.
• Sometimes it is caused if the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen during birth or early life.
• Everyone experiences CP differently, with varying levels of difficulty.
• Some people with CP may also have epilepsy (seizures) or find it hard to talk.
• Cerebral Palsy itself is not a learning disability, but some people with CP also have learning disabilities.
• Doctors usually diagnose CP when a child is born or soon after.
• Physiotherapy and other therapies can help people with CP improve movement and manage their condition.

For more information, visit: Cerebral Palsy Research Network