10/06/2026
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common lifelong physical and motor disability in childhood, affecting about 1 in every 345 children in the United States.
Key Facts About Cerebral Palsy
• It is not a single condition: CP is an umbrella term for a group of neurological disorders that affect body movement, muscle tone, coordination, and posture.
• It is non-progressive: The underlying brain injury or abnormal development does not worsen over time. However, as individuals age, secondary effects like joint wear-and-tear or muscle tightness can change how symptoms are experienced.
• Spastic CP is the most common type: Accounting for roughly 80% of all cases, spastic cerebral palsy involves stiff or tight muscles caused by damage to the motor cortex. Other types include dyskinetic, ataxic, and mixed forms.
• Intelligence varies widely: A common misconception is that CP directly impairs intellect. Many people with cerebral palsy have average or above-average intelligence, while others experience co-occurring intellectual disabilities.
• More than half of all people with cerebral palsy can walk independently, while others utilize mobility aids like braces, walkers, or wheelchairs.
• Early detection is advancing: Modern standardized movement assessments and emerging technology tools (such as AI movement analysis and apps like Baby Moves VIEW) allow clinicians to identify infants at high risk for CP much earlier in life
