Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of movement disorders that appear in early childhood. Symptoms vary over time but include poor coordination, stiff muscles, weak muscles, and tremors. There may be problems with movement, vision, hearing, and speaking. Often, babies with cerebral palsy are unable to roll over, sit, crawl or walk as early as other children of their age. Other symptoms include seizures and impairment in thinking or reasoning, which each occur in about one-third of people with CP. 

Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal development or damage to the area of the brain that controls movement, balance, and posture. The problems generally occur during pregnancy, but may also arise during childbirth or shortly after birth. More often than not, the cause is unknown. Risk factors include preterm birth, being a twin, certain infections during pregnancy, a challenging delivery, and head trauma in early life. A fraction of the cases is caused by an inherited genetic cause. A number of sub-types are classified, based on the specific impairments present. Diagnosis is based on the child’s development over time. 

Some of the causes of CP are preventable through immunization of the mother, and through efforts to prevent head injuries in children such as through improved safety. There is no known cure for CP, but supportive methods, complex rehab technology, medication, and surgery may help many individuals. Beneficial treatments may include physical therapy, seating clinics, and speech therapy. Often, external braces and other assistive technology make a world of difference. Cerebral palsy is the most common movement disorder in children.