Cerebral Palsy and Spasticity
Wolfson Children’s Hospital provides pediatric neuroscience services in collaboration with Nemours Children's Health, Jacksonville.
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Cerebral Palsy and Spasticity
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders related to the development of movement and motor control, posture, and muscle spasticity. The earlier in life a child’s cerebral palsy symptoms are detected, the better their care options and quality of life.
Early Detection Matters
Cerebral palsy is the most common childhood physical disability in the United States. While it can be difficult to assess a baby’s motor control, advances in diagnostic tools and imaging have improved the ability to identify cerebral palsy at an earlier age.
Studies show that early diagnosis of the musculoskeletal complications of cerebral palsy can help prevent the onset of hip dislocation, scoliosis and contractures, which occur when muscles become permanently shortened or stiff.
An early diagnosis, ideally before 9 months of age, allows access to specialized treatments and therapies that can improve movement, function and quality of life.
Spasticity, a common symptom of cerebral palsy, causes abnormal muscle tightness that limits movement and interferes with everyday activities. It is often associated with chronic pain and can affect normal growth and development, leading to muscle contractures and skeletal deformities. Early intervention can help improve outcomes and maximize function.
Children and adults with cerebral palsy may experience a range of challenges, including spasticity, motor impairment, posture abnormalities and movement disorders that can benefit from early evaluation and treatment.
Why Wolfson
Wolfson Children’s Hospital is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the 50 best children’s hospitals in the nation for neurology and neurosurgery. Families also have access to the region's only pediatric orthopedic surgeons with specialized pediatric training, along with advanced rehabilitation, neurology and neurosurgical services focused on helping children achieve their fullest potential.
Cerebral Palsy and Spasticity
Wolfson Children’s Hospital provides pediatric neuroscience services in collaboration with Nemours Children's Health, Jacksonville.
Learn more
Related Information
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What are the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy in babies?
The physical symptoms of cerebral palsy can be difficult to detect in infants. However, diagnostic advances have made it easier to identify signs in babies younger than 12 months, when the brain and nervous system are most adaptable and responsive to therapy. Parents are often the first to notice concerns with their child's development, so any concerns should be discussed with a pediatrician or family physician.
These signs may include:
- Delay in motor development, such as difficulty holding up or controlling the head
- Poor muscle tone or unusual stiffness
- Delayed movement milestones, such as rolling over or sitting up
- Limp or uncontrolled movement on one or both sides of the body
- Fidgety or spontaneous movements that do not progress into purposeful motor control
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How early can cerebral palsy be detected in babies?
Risk factors for cerebral palsy can often be identified before birth, particularly in pregnancies involving premature birth, low birth weight or complications that affect oxygen delivery to the baby's brain.
When concerns are present, formal evaluations may begin before 5 months of age using specialized assessments and imaging tools such as the General Movements Assessment, HINE neurological examination and MRI.
Researchers now discourage waiting for developmental delays to become obvious before evaluation, as earlier identification can increase opportunities for treatment and support.
Specialized Services
Children with cerebral palsy may benefit from a range of specialized services depending on their individual needs, including:
High-Tech Neurosurgery
Wolfson Children's is a national leader in both minimally invasive and highly complex neurological surgeries. Our state-of-the-art operating rooms are specially equipped to bring MRI to the patient during surgery. Surgeons can use the sophisticated imaging equipment during procedures to precisely guide and verify intricate repairs, all leading to better outcomes.