What is Cerebral Palsy?

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Cerebral Palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood. It is a permanent physical condition that affects movement.

In Australia, it is estimated that a child is born with CP every 15 hours.

Cerebral Palsy is not a disease, it is not contagious and there is no known genetic link.

CP results from damage to the developing brain before or during birth, or early in life.

Babies most at risk of CP are those born prematurely or with low birth weight.

CP, except in its mildest forms, can be seen in the first 12-18 months of life. The condition presents when children fail to reach movement milestones.

There is no known cure, and no specific pre-birth test.

CP can be as mild as just a weakness in one hand ranging to almost complete lack of movement. Although it is a lifelong disability, much can be done to reduce its impact.

It is important for children to receive support from an early age to ensure they have every opportunity to reach their full potential. The right therapy and equipment can make all the difference.

Some people with CP also have vision, hearing, speech or intellectual impairment. Ongoing research is vital for the management of CP.

Issues such as accommodation, transport, employment, ageing, access to health services and technology are critical to many people with CP.