Cerebral palsy symptoms are the physical signs of a condition that affects movement, muscle tone, posture and balance. They look different for every person, and healthdirect lists stiffness or floppiness, uncontrolled movements, muscle weakness, and balance and coordination problems among them.
This guide is for parents, adults with cerebral palsy, carers and support workers in Australia. It covers early signs of cerebral palsy, how the condition can affect daily life, when to see a doctor and where support comes from. For a plain definition, see cerebral palsy explained.
Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects movement, muscle tone, posture and balance. The symptoms are not the condition itself, but the ways it shows up in movement, posture and daily tasks.
Two people with the same diagnosis can look very different. One may walk with a slight limp, while another may use a wheelchair and communication supports. The table explains the main terms you will hear.
These patterns are based on the symptoms healthdirect lists. Your specialist can explain which description fits you or your child.
Symptoms differ from person to person. Read more in our guide to mild cerebral palsy.
See dyskinetic cerebral palsy for what families often ask.
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.
Make a referral →Healthdirect gives the milestones below. Trust your instincts and raise concerns early; you do not need to wait for a scheduled check.
Our guide to the signs of cerebral palsy in babies covers what parents often notice first. Bring a short note of what you have seen, or short phone videos, to the appointment.
Healthdirect says diagnosis is usually confirmed by age 2. Your doctor can explain what happens next.
Our guide on how cerebral palsy is diagnosed explains each step in more detail.
People ask what cerebral palsy affects and what the effects of cerebral palsy are in daily life. Cerebral palsy impairments can include movement, posture and eating, and each person has a different mix.
Many families ask whether cerebral palsy symptoms get worse with age. The answer depends on the person, so speak to a doctor who knows their history.
For how treatment fits in, see treatment for cerebral palsy, and for causes see what causes cerebral palsy. If you are comparing conditions, our guide to symptoms of autism explains that condition.
A few practical steps can help you and the treating team plan support at home.
A little preparation helps you get the most from a short appointment. The suggestions below suit parents, adults with cerebral palsy and carers.
If something feels wrong and you are not satisfied with the answer, you can ask for a second opinion or raise the concern again at a follow-up visit.
How we talk about cerebral palsy matters. Describe the person first and the condition second, and let them tell you what they want and need.
If you meet the NDIS access requirements, the NDIS may fund supports such as therapy, equipment and help at home. Evidence from your treating team can 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.
Make a referral →Call 000 in an emergency, such as a seizure that does not stop or trouble breathing. If you feel overwhelmed as a carer, Lifeline is on 13 11 14.
If cerebral palsy symptoms are part of your or your family’s life, practical help at home may be part of the picture. TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home, always guided by the person and their plan. Explore our NDIS services or make a referral, and we will call you back to talk through what you need.
It looks different for every person. Some have stiff muscles or jerky movements, others have floppy muscles, balance problems or difficulty with eating. Some people need a wheelchair, while others walk independently. A specialist can explain what it looks like for you or your child.
Cerebral palsy mainly affects movement, muscle tone, posture and coordination. It can also affect swallowing and eating. The effects vary, so ask the treating team which therapy, equipment or support at home might help.
Healthdirect lists stiffness or floppiness, exaggerated reflexes or jerking, muscle weakness, uncontrolled movements, balance and coordination problems, and difficulty with swallowing, sucking or eating. Spasticity is the most common problem. See a doctor if you are worried about your child’s development.
For current Australian figures, see the Cerebral Palsy Alliance website. Support is available whatever the symptoms look like.
It depends on the person. Support needs differ widely. A diary of what is hard each day can be useful to share with therapists and planners.
Healthdirect says symptoms usually appear in the first 2 years. See a doctor if a baby cannot hold up their head by 4 months, is not sitting by 9 months or not walking by 18 months, or if you notice stiffness or floppiness.