What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent movement and posture disorders caused by damage to the developing brain, typically before, during, or shortly after birth.
CP is the most common physical disability in children. In India, prevalence is estimated at 3 per 1,000 live births — higher than global averages, partly due to higher rates of birth complications and infections.
CP affects movement, posture, and coordination. It may also affect communication, cognition, and sensory processing — and frequently co-occurs with intellectual disability, epilepsy, vision and hearing impairment, and communication difficulties.
Types of Cerebral Palsy
Spastic CP (most common): Increased muscle tone causing stiff movements.
Dyskinetic/Athetoid CP: Involuntary, uncontrolled movements.
Ataxic CP: Balance and coordination difficulties.
Mixed CP: Combination of types.
Therapy in India
Physiotherapy: Core therapy for CP. Addresses muscle tone, range of motion, posture, and functional movement. Government: AYJNISHD, district hospitals, DEIC. Private: ₹500–2,000/session.
Occupational therapy: Functional skills, hand use, adaptive equipment.
Speech therapy: Many children with CP have communication difficulties due to oral motor involvement. AAC is critical for those with limited speech.
Botox injections: Used by pediatric neurologists to reduce spasticity in specific muscle groups. Available at AIIMS, NIMHANS, and major private hospitals.
Government Programs for CP
Recognized disability under RPWD Act 2016. All UDID benefits apply. ADIP scheme covers assistive devices (wheelchairs, walkers, communication devices). Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram provides free early intervention.