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Cerebral Palsy

Supporting movement, independence and quality of life

About Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent, non-progressive movement and posture disorders caused by damage to the developing brain, most commonly before or during birth. It is the most common cause of motor disability in childhood in the UK, affecting approximately 1 in 400 children. The brain injury does not worsen over time; however, the functional impact on the body can change as a child grows. CP affects each person differently — some children have mild difficulties with coordination, while others require significant support with all aspects of daily life.

Cerebral palsy can affect anyone. In the UK, around 30,000 children live with the condition, with approximately 1,800 new diagnoses each year (Scope UK). It is more prevalent in premature babies, babies with low birth weight, and those who experienced oxygen deprivation during birth.

Information sourced from: NHS, Scope UK, NICE Guideline NG62

Signs & Symptoms

  • Spasticity (muscle stiffness and tightness)
  • Difficulties with balance and coordination (ataxia)
  • Involuntary, writhing movements (dyskinesia or athetosis)
  • Weakness in one or more limbs
  • Altered muscle tone — high (hypertonia) or low (hypotonia)
  • Delayed motor milestones such as sitting, standing or walking
  • Difficulty with fine motor skills including writing and self-care
  • Gait abnormalities — toe walking, scissor gait, or asymmetrical movement
  • Associated conditions including epilepsy, speech difficulties, and learning disability

How Physiotherapy Helps

  • Improving strength, range of movement and functional motor skills
  • Preventing or reducing muscle contractures and joint deformity through stretching programmes
  • Gait analysis and retraining to maximise walking efficiency and safety
  • Advising on and trialling orthoses (splints) and specialist equipment
  • Hydrotherapy to improve movement in a low-resistance, supported environment
  • Rebound therapy to develop balance, coordination, and confidence
  • Equine-assisted therapy to improve posture, balance, and emotional wellbeing
  • Goal-setting using tools such as GMFCS and GAS (Goal Attainment Scaling)
  • Postural management programmes to support seating and lying position
  • Family and carer education and training

What to Expect from Physio4Kids

1

A thorough assessment using standardised tools such as the GMFCS and MACS

2

A personalised, goal-oriented treatment plan co-created with the family

3

Community-based sessions delivered at home, school, or nursery

4

Regular review appointments to monitor progress and adjust goals

5

Close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams including OTs, SLTs, and orthotists

6

Written reports suitable for EHCP, legal, or case management purposes

Ready to discuss Cerebral Palsy support?

Our specialist physiotherapy team has extensive experience supporting children and young adults with cerebral palsy. Contact us today for a free initial conversation.