Cerebral Palsy Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms of cerebral palsy vary widely and may include difficulty with fine motor tasks (such as writing or using scissors), difficulty maintaining balance or walking, and involuntary movements. The symptoms differ from person-to-person and may change over time.

Cerebral palsy first shows up in children aged three years or younger. Symptoms vary depending on what areas of the brain are affected. Some children may have severe disabilities. Although symptoms may change as the child grows older, his condition is unlikely to worsen.

Symptoms include:

Late to turn over, sit up, smile, or walk
Trouble writing, buttoning a button, or other fine motor activities
Difficulty walking or standing
Tight, spastic muscles
Weak muscles
Poor balance
Speech problems
Tremors
Unintentional body movements
Difficulty swallowing
Drooling

Some people with cerebral palsy suffer from other medical disorders as well, including:

Seizures
Intellectual disability
Learning disabilities
Vision or hearing problems
Failure-to-thrive
Decreased ability to feel pain or identify items by touch
Problems with bowel and bladder control
Breathing problems if food or water has accidentally entered the lungs
Skin breakdown

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose cerebral palsy by testing motor skills and reflexes, looking into medical history, and employing a variety of specialized tests.

Tests may include:

Electroencephalogram (EEG) —a test that records the brain's electrical activity using electrodes placed on the surface of the head
CT scan of the head—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the head
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the head

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.