Cerebral palsy, or CP, is a disability that affects a person’s balance and movement with the severity varying from person to person. Whether you know someone with CP or simply want to learn more about the disability, this is the blog for you. Here are 10 things you should know about cerebral palsy: 

1. Cerebral palsy is the most common childhood motor disability. 

According to the CDC, 1 in 1,000 children are born with CP. The prevalence is even higher for premature babies or those born at low birth weight. 

2. Many children aren’t diagnosed with cerebral palsy until age 2 or later. 

The signs of CP start appearing in the first few months of a child’s life, such as them being slow to reach developmental milestones.  

3. Cerebral palsy is more common among boys than girls. 

The reason for CP being more prevalent in males than females is unknown. It’s also more common among African American children than among Caucasian children and the reason for this is also unknown. 

4. Over half of children with cerebral palsy can walk fine on their own. 

CP doesn’t necessarily have to affect the legs. Many children with CP can walk independently without the need for mobility aids. 

5. Twins are more likely to be born with cerebral palsy. 

This has a lot to do with the fact that twins are often born prematurely, and they’re usually born with a lower birth weight.  

6. CP is usually caused by a brain injury. 

While the main cause of CP is unknown in most cases, it’s usually caused by a brain injury that occurs during pregnancy or even during childbirth. 

7. March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. 

Every year we dedicate March to educating and spreading awareness about CP. If you want to participate and show your support for those with CP, wear green! 

8. There are different types of cerebral palsy. 

The four main types of CP include spastic, athetoid, ataxic and mixed type, and they vary depending on how severely the brain injury has impacted muscle tone. 

9. The most common type of cerebral palsy is spastic CP. 

About 75% of children with CP have spastic CP. This means their muscles are stiff which can result in awkward movements. 

10. There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatment options are available. 

While there’s no cure, treatment options include physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, medication and surgery. 

Now that you know more about cerebral palsy, do your part and spread awareness. Share this blog with your friends and family, share what you learned and show your support during Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month this March.