Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement, posture, and muscle tone, caused by an alteration in development or an injury to the brain in the early stages of life.

How it presents: It may be noticed through delays in reaching motor milestones, muscle stiffness or floppiness, involuntary movements, and coordination difficulties; its intensity varies greatly from one person to another.

Common causes: Factors that affect the brain before, during, or shortly after birth, although at times no single cause is identified.

Which specialist treats it? It usually requires a team: pediatric neurologist, pediatrician, pediatric orthopedic surgeon, and physical therapist, among others. If you notice delays or difficulties in a child's motor development, discussing it with a health professional helps begin the appropriate support.