Cerebral palsy explained
A plain-language guide to cerebral palsy: what it is, the main types, how it is described, and the therapies and supports that help children and adults thrive.
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and posture. It is caused by a difference or injury in the developing brain - usually before or around birth. The brain difference itself does not get worse over time, but how it affects the body can change as a person grows.
The main types
CP is often described by how muscles behave:
- Spastic - stiff, tight muscles (the most common type).
- Dyskinetic - movements that are hard to control, sometimes writhing or abrupt.
- Ataxic - shaky, unsteady movement and balance.
- Mixed - a combination of the above.
More than movement
Because CP comes from the brain, some people also have differences in communication, learning, vision, hearing, eating and swallowing, or epilepsy. Many people with CP have none of these - every person is different.
How therapy helps
CP is not “fixed” but function can be built and protected across life:
- Physiotherapy for movement, strength, and posture.
- Occupational therapy for daily skills, seating, and equipment.
- Speech and language therapy for talking, communication aids, and safe eating.
- Early, playful, repeated practice helps the developing brain the most.
For families
Focus on participation - play, school, friendships, and independence - not just “normal” movement. Small, consistent supports usually beat intense short bursts, and your therapy team can tailor a home programme.
Go deeper
- Speech & language milestones
- Supporting children’s thinking skills
- Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
This is general education, not medical advice.