What Is Ataxic Cerebral Palsy?

What is ataxic cerebral palsy? Definition

Cerebral Palsy Alliance describes ataxic cerebral palsy as involving shaky movements affecting balance (Cerebral Palsy Alliance). Cerebral palsy ataxia is one of several types.

Because the types can overlap, some people are described as having mixed cerebral palsy. Your specialist can explain which description applies to you or your child.

Ataxic cerebral palsy symptoms

healthdirect lists balance and coordination problems among the symptoms of cerebral palsy (healthdirect). Its wider list covers several signs that may be seen across types.

• Balance and coordination problems, which in ataxic cerebral palsy show up as shaky or unsteady movement.
• Uncontrolled movements, stiffness or floppiness, exaggerated reflexes or jerking, and muscle weakness, which healthdirect lists across cerebral palsy generally.
• Difficulty with swallowing, sucking or eating, which should be raised with a doctor or speech pathologist.

healthdirect also says spasticity is the most common problem in cerebral palsy overall. Not everyone has every symptom listed here, and your specialist can explain which apply.

Mild ataxic cerebral palsy

Some people have ataxic cerebral palsy that affects them only a little, and others need more support. Severity is something your specialist assesses, not something you can judge from a list.

• Keep a short diary of tasks that take longer or feel unsafe, such as stairs, uneven ground or carrying a drink.
• Ask your physiotherapist or occupational therapist about balance, safe movement and equipment suited to your daily routine.
• Tell teachers, employers and support workers what helps, so adjustments can be made early.
• Review the plan whenever your needs change, because supports that fit now may need adjusting later.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

How ataxic cerebral palsy is recognised in Australia

healthdirect says cerebral palsy symptoms usually appear in the first 2 years, with diagnosis usually confirmed by age 2.

1. 1Raise your concerns early. Tell your GP or child health nurse about any change in movement, balance or feeding.
2. 2Watch the milestones. See a doctor if a baby cannot hold up their head by 4 months, is not sitting up by 9 months or not walking by 18 months.
3. 3Ask for a referral. Your GP can refer you to a paediatrician or specialist, who will assess movement and development.
4. 4Keep your reports. Store assessments and therapy notes together so they are ready for appointments and NDIS planning.

Support for people with cerebral palsy ataxia

Supports are chosen around the person’s goals, not the label. Ask your care team what is suitable.

• Ask whether physiotherapy or occupational therapy for balance, movement and everyday tasks is suitable, as your clinicians recommend.
• Raise any communication, eating or swallowing concerns so your doctor can advise on a speech pathology referral.
• Equipment, home changes and mobility aids may be considered with an occupational therapist.
• Support workers can help with personal care, community access and help around the home, as your plan allows.

Ataxic cerebral palsy and the NDIS

If you meet the NDIS access requirements, the NDIS may fund supports related to disability.

• Gather reports from your doctor and therapists that show how cerebral palsy affects daily life.
• Read our guide on whether cerebral palsy is a disability to understand how it is treated in Australia.
• Describe goals in everyday terms, such as walking to the bus stop or preparing a meal safely.
• Check the NDIS website for current plan and pricing information rather than relying on older figures.

When to talk to a GP or specialist

Seek advice if any of these apply to you or your child.

• A baby cannot hold up their head by 4 months, is not sitting up by 9 months or is not walking by 18 months.
• You notice unsteady or shaky movements that are new, getting worse, or affecting daily life.
• Feeding, swallowing or sucking seems difficult or unsafe.
• You want to understand the type of cerebral palsy, or need reports for the NDIS.
• Falls or injuries are happening more often than before.

Call 000 in an emergency, including choking or a seizure that does not stop. Follow the person’s own management plan while you wait for help.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Your next step

Living with cerebral palsy often means a mix of therapy, equipment and everyday help. At TQN Care, our support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home, working with your therapists and plan. See our NDIS services or make a referral and we will call you back.