---
canonical: https://aderettherapy.com.au/resources/cerebral-palsy/
title: Understanding Cerebral Palsy
slug: cerebral-palsy
date: 2024-11-14
type: interactive
reviewer: Vivienne Walla
reviewer_title: Paediatric Physiotherapist
status: published
image: hero.png
image_alt: Interactive body explorer - tap on different body parts to learn how cerebral palsy can affect them
summary: An interactive body explorer - tap on different areas to learn how cerebral palsy affects movement, muscles, and coordination.
keywords: cerebral palsy, CP, muscle tone, spasticity, paediatric physiotherapy, NDIS, body awareness, gross motor
scene: room
scene_toggles: window, ball, blocks, toyCar
pose: understanding-cerebral-palsy
pose_toggles: head, arms, trunk, legs
caption: |
  <p>Tap on <span class="char-name-pos">Sam's</span> body to explore how cerebral palsy can affect different areas. The <strong>head</strong>, <strong>arms</strong>, <strong>trunk</strong>, and <strong>legs</strong> each open a short note on how movement, tone, and coordination might be involved - and what physiotherapy does about it.</p>
rank: 97
---
## What Is Cerebral Palsy?

**Cerebral palsy (CP)** is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect movement, posture, and coordination. It's caused by an interruption to how the brain develops, or by an injury to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. CP is the most common physical disability in childhood with the Australian Cerebral Palsy Register (ACPR) stating that CP occurs in approximately 1.5 in every 1000 live births.

CP is non-progressive - it doesn't get worse over time and it isn't contagious. However, it can be linked to other conditions and musculoskeletal complications that do get worse over time. It's a lifelong condition, but with the right support, children with CP can make amazing progress. Every child with CP is unique - the way it affects them depends on which part of the brain is involved and how much.

Some children may have difficulty with walking, while others may find it hard to use their hands, sit upright, or speak clearly. Some children are affected mildly, while others need more support in their daily lives.

## How Physiotherapy Helps

Physiotherapy is one of the most important therapies for children with CP. A paediatric physiotherapist works with your child to:

- **Build strength** - especially in the core, legs, and arms
- **Improve flexibility** - gentle stretching helps manage tight muscles (spasticity) and abnormal tone
- **Develop motor skills** - rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking
- **Support independence** - learning to move, play, and participate in daily activities
- **Positioning and Posture** - keeping joints flexible and symmetrical and preventing complications

We use play-based therapy to keep sessions fun and engaging. Children learn best when they're having a good time - and that's exactly how we like to work!

## Every Child Is Different

There's no "one size fits all" approach to CP. Some children walk independently, some use walkers or wheelchairs, and some are working on sitting and reaching. What matters is finding what works for **your** child and helping them reach **their** goals.

If your child has been diagnosed with CP, or if you have concerns about their movement and development, we'd love to help. Get in touch to find out how physiotherapy can support your child's journey.