Cerebral Palsy: Types, Causes, and Care at Home

What Is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a group of lifelong conditions that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is caused by damage to or abnormal development of the developing brain, most often before birth. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood. It is not progressive, meaning the brain injury itself does not worsen, though symptoms can change over time.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is grouped by how it affects movement:

• Spastic CP: The most common type, causing stiff muscles and difficult movement.
• Dyskinetic CP: Causing uncontrolled, involuntary movements of the arms, legs, or face.
• Ataxic CP: Affecting balance and coordination, making precise movements hard.
• Mixed CP: A combination of more than one type.

Causes and Associated Conditions

Cerebral palsy results from abnormal brain development or injury that affects the areas controlling movement. It can be linked to premature birth, low birth weight, infections during pregnancy, or a lack of oxygen. People with CP may also have associated conditions such as seizures, intellectual or learning differences, vision or hearing changes, and feeding or speech challenges.

Home Care for Cerebral Palsy

Home care helps a person with cerebral palsy stay comfortable, safe, and as independent as possible. Caregivers assist with mobility and transfers, feeding, personal care, and therapy routines, and skilled nurses support more complex needs. Focus Family Care provides cerebral palsy home care across South Florida, and coordinates pediatric home care and therapy at home when needed.