Skip to main content

Condition

Pediatric Cerebral Palsy

Key Points About Cerebral Palsy in Children

  • Cerebral palsy is a brain (neurological) disorder that causes problems with normal motor function. It affects body movement, muscle control, coordination, reflexes, posture, and balance. 
  • In many cases, the exact cause of cerebral palsy isn't known. Most cases happen before or during birth (congenital cerebral palsy). Cerebral palsy that occurs after birth usually happens from an infection or head injury.
  • Cerebral palsy can range in severity, but it doesn’t get worse over time. With diagnosis and treatment, children can learn how to manage their condition.
  • Symptoms can vary in each child and depend on the severity of cerebral palsy. Many children with cerebral palsy have normal intelligence. A child may have muscle weakness, poor motor control, or shaking (spasticity) of the arms or legs. A child may also have stiff legs or clenched fists.
  • Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that doesn't have a cure. A child is treated by a healthcare team. Treatment may include rehab, positioning aids, braces, splints, medicines or surgery.

Appointments

Our team is standing by to schedule your child’s appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cerebral palsy in children?

What causes cerebral palsy in children?

Which children are at risk for cerebral palsy?

What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy in children?

How is cerebral palsy diagnosed in children?

How is cerebral palsy treated in a child?

What are possible complications of cerebral palsy in a child?

How can I help prevent cerebral palsy in my child?

How can I help my child live with cerebral palsy?

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

two young girls smiling

Movement Disorders Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The Movement Disorders Program at Children’s National offers evaluation, diagnosis and treatment to more than 400 children each year with conditions that affect the speed, quality and ease of their movement. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

two young girls smiling
Girl Smiling and Clapping

Help Kids and Make a Difference

Invest in future cures for some of life's most devastating diseases. Give today to help more children grow up stronger.

Girl Smiling and Clapping

PATIENT STORY

Alicia's Story

Alicia playing baseball

Providers Who Treat Cerebral Palsy

    Departments that Treat Cerebral Palsy

    Young Girl Smiling with Arms Up

    Movement Disorders Program

    The Movement Disorders Program at Children's National Hospital offers evaluation, diagnosis and treatment to more than 400 children each year with conditions that affect the speed, quality and ease of their movement.

    Limb Lengthening

    Using a family-centered approach, Children's National delivers specialized care to help children with limb length discrepancies achieve equal limb length.

    Complex Salivary and Endocrine Surgery

    The Complex Salivary and Endocrine Surgery Program at Children's National Hospital treats problems that occur when a child cannot control oral and facial muscles.