What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development; before, during or shortly following birth; or during infancy. "Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" to muscle weakness; poor control. Cerebral palsy itself is not progressive (i.e., it does not get worse); however, secondary conditions can develop which may get better over time, get worse or remain the same. Cerebral palsy is not communicable. It is not a disease and should never be referred to as such. Although cerebral palsy is not "curable" in the accepted sense, training and therapy can help improve function.