Cerebral Palsy

What is cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a developmental disability which is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain, either before a baby is born, during birth, or shortly after birth. Cerebral palsy affects the muscles of the body and coordination. Speech and cognition can also be affected. Cerebral palsy can range from mild to severe. It is not a disease and does not get worse over time. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but therapy, education, and assistive technology can lessen the impact.

Facts

• Group of disorders that hinder control of movement
• A lack of muscle control and body movement
• Types of cerebral palsy include spastic, athetoid, and mixed
• Children with cerebral palsy may qualify for special education
• About 5,000 children are diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy each year