Cerebral palsy
What is cerebral palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, impacting movement, muscle control, posture, and coordination. CP may also shape learning, speech, vision, hearing, and thinking functions. Usually diagnosed in early childhood, CP is lifelong but not progressive, meaning it does not worsen over time.
At Penn Medicine, people with CP receive comprehensive, coordinated care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists in neurology, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. We offer advanced diagnostic tools, long-term management, and access to rehabilitation services designed to support mobility, communication, and independence. Our team partners closely with patients and families to address changing needs over time and provide expert care at every stage of life.
Signs of cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is often detected in babies when developmental milestones, such as rolling over, sitting, or walking, are delayed. For those with milder symptoms, the signs of CP may not be clear until a child is a bit older. CP may affect one side of the body more than the other, and symptoms may be more noticeable in the arms or legs, or in all the limbs. Common symptoms include muscle stiffness or tightness, abnormal walking patterns, poor coordination, tremors, or floppy muscles. Some people experience speech difficulties, learning challenges, seizures, or vision or hearing problems.
CP symptoms by type
Types of cerebral palsy are based on which areas of the brain are affected and how movement and muscle tone are impacted. Each type has distinct features, though some people may have a mix of symptoms.
This is the most common type of CP. Muscles are stiff and tight (spasticity), which makes movement difficult. People may have trouble bending or straightening their arms or legs. Walking can look awkward, as people often cross their legs or walk on their toes.
This type causes involuntary movements that the person cannot control. Movements may be twisting, jerking, or slow and writhing. Muscle tone can change from stiff to loose. Speech and swallowing are often affected.
Cerebral palsy with ataxia mainly affects balance and coordination. People may have shaky movements, poor depth perception, and trouble with precise tasks like writing or buttoning clothes. Walking may appear unsteady or wide-based with feet set farther apart than usual.
This type is marked by low muscle tone. Muscles feel floppy, especially in infancy, and joints may be very flexible. Babies may have trouble holding up their heads or meeting motor milestones. Muscle weakness can affect posture and movement.
Some people have symptoms from more than one type of CP. Mixed CP most often combines features of spastic and dyskinetic cerebral palsy, including both muscle stiffness and involuntary movements.
Known causes of cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is related to injury or abnormal development of the brain while it is still growing. This most often happens before birth, but it can also occur during delivery or within the first two years of life.
Factors that may increase risk include premature birth, lack of oxygen to the brain, brain infections, bleeding in the brain, head injury, untreated jaundice, or infections during pregnancy. In most cases, CP is not genetic (inherited), and a specific cause is not always identified.
Diagnosing CP
CP is diagnosed through a detailed medical history and neurological exam. Penn Medicine specialists may use imaging tests to evaluate brain structure and development. Hearing and vision tests and other assessments may be used to rule out related conditions and better understand each person’s needs.
Therapies for managing cerebral palsy
There is no cure for CP, so treatment focuses on improving function, comfort, and independence. Care is personalized and often involves a team approach. Physical therapy plays a key role in improving strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility. Occupational therapy helps with daily activities such as dressing, eating, and writing, while speech therapy supports communication and swallowing.
CP management may also include medication for muscle tightness or seizures and supportive aids like a wheelchair, walker, or braces to help with mobility. Occasionally, surgery is recommended. Ongoing care helps reduce complications and support quality of life.