Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting movement and posture. It is caused by early injury to the developing brain, and can severely limit mobility, coordination, and independence in daily life.
There are approximately 764,000 people in the U.S. and 712,000 people in the EU with CP. Each year, about 10,000 babies in the U.S. and around 8,500 in the EU are born with CP.(1) (2)
CP refers to a group of permanent disorders in the development of movement and posture, which causes activity limitations, and is attributed to non-progressive disturbances that occurred in the developing fetal or infant brain. CP has multiple subtypes which are characterized by a range of symptoms, including but not limited to: hypertonicity, hyperreflexia, involuntary, uncontrolled, repetitive movements, altered muscle tone, abnormal posture. The severity of CP presentation varies depending on the movement disorder, area affected, and extent of damage. Various factors can disrupt normal brain development and lead to CP, including infections, encephalopathy, trauma, or genetic contributions. Disruption at critical developmental stages of brain plasticity such as in utero, during childbirth, or during infancy can lead to CP.(4)
CP can cause a variety of motor symptoms such as stiff or weak muscles, shaky movements, and trouble with balance and coordination. Some children may also have difficulty sitting, walking, speaking, swallowing, or controlling their posture. In addition to movement challenges, CP may present conditions such as joint problems, fatigue, seizures, or learning delays.
CP is usually diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and observing a child’s movement and development. Doctors may use imaging tests, like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to support the clinical diagnosis and look for brain abnormalities. Diagnosis may occur in early childhood, especially if a child shows delayed milestones or motor development.
There is currently no cure for CP, and no approved therapies that treat underlying brain damage. Therapy, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, can strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and support daily activities. In some cases, medications or surgery may be used for symptomatic management, to reduce muscle stiffness or correct movement problems.
Living with CP means facing daily challenges with movement, balance, and coordination. Tasks such as walking, dressing, or holding objects can take extra effort, and some people may need support or adaptive devices. Cerebral palsy itself is non-progressive, but secondary symptoms such as muscle stiffness, joint problems, and fatigue can increase, and some individuals may face serious health complications that can affect overall well-being.
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