Cerebral palsy is a life-long neurological condition. It is an umbrella term for a group of physical disorders that affect movement and posture. It can also affect the function of other body systems. It may affect one side of the body or both arms and legs. It is the most common physical disability in childhood. 

There is no ‘cure’ for CP, and so management becomes the key to obtaining the best outcomes possible for your child.

There have been many advancements in research, therapies, interventions, supports, services and technology in recent years. Each successful innovation helps babies, toddlers, young children and families manage their cerebral palsy successfully, with better outcomes and enhanced life experiences. 

Because no two brain injuries are likely to be identical, each person’s life experience with CP is unique. However, having difficulties with movement is common and these can range from mild to more complex.

It’s the job of medical and allied health professionals to assess how cerebral palsy is presenting in your child. They will conduct initial assessments to determine developmental need, and then ongoing assessments to monitor progress and to reset goals. The program will be individually tailored to your child’s specific needs. Family support is an important part of getting this program right. 

CP can be managed successfully. Building a team of medical and allied health professionals is so important to successful outcomes. Management therapies may include medicines, physical therapy and muscle strengthening, adaptive equipment, casts, splints or surgery.

The objective of any treatment is to maximise your baby, toddler or young child’s independence, to control pain and to optimise mobility.

Every child with CP is different. All have some impairment when it comes to coordinating muscles and movement.

But for some children, secondary conditions or associated impairments present because of their cerebral palsy. These conditions may affect their ability to talk, their hearing or vision, their cognition and learning, their sleep and continence. 

Sometimes the impact of these additional impairments can have a greater effect than CP does. Again, health professionals will guide you towards the supports and therapies available.

Of course, engaging a team of professionals is expensive. For approved applicants, there is government funding support available, such as the NDIS. In general, the level of support is calculated according to the needs of the child as they develop.

Understanding how to access available funding can be daunting. You can speak to your health team about how to demonstrate your child’s eligibility. While it can take a few months for funding to be approved, parents can access services immediately.

Through all of this, it’s important to keep asking yourself — how am I coping? The most important member of your child’s team is you! It’s normal to feel drained, and tired, and sad, and stressed by the job of managing a significant disability. If you feel your physical or mental health slipping, make an appointment with your GP.

In this section below, you will find more information related to managing CP and relevant therapies and interventions.