Cerebral Palsy: Complete Guide to Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and posture, caused by damage to the developing brain. If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, you’re likely experiencing a flood of emotions—fear, confusion, grief, and uncertainty about the future. Understanding what happened during your child’s birth is the first step toward getting answers and getting your family the support you deserve. While CP can occur due to factors beyond anyone’s control, a significant percentage of cases result from preventable medical errors during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.

If you believe your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by medical negligence during birth, you may have legal options. A birth injury attorney can review your case at no cost and help you understand whether malpractice occurred. Because statute of limitations deadlines apply, it’s important to get answers sooner rather than later. Contact a birth injury lawyer today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

On this page:

• What is cerebral palsy
• Types of cerebral palsy
• Signs and symptoms
• Causes and risk factors
• When it’s medical malpractice
• How CP is diagnosed
• Treatment options
• Long-term prognosis and life expectancy
• Financial costs of CP
• Filing a cerebral palsy lawsuit
• Finding a birth injury lawyer
• Frequently asked questions

What Is Cerebral Palsy?

 

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in 345 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The term “cerebral” refers to the brain’s cerebrum, which controls movement and cognitive function, while “palsy” describes weakness or problems with muscle control.

Unlike progressive conditions that worsen over time, cerebral palsy results from a one-time brain injury or malformation that occurs during brain development. The brain damage itself doesn’t progress, though the physical symptoms and challenges may change as a child grows and develops. This damage disrupts the brain’s ability to control muscles and coordinate movement, leading to a wide range of physical disabilities.

Children with CP experience varying levels of difficulty with movement, posture, and balance. Some may have barely noticeable symptoms affecting only one limb, while others may have severe disabilities requiring full-time care and assistance with all daily activities. The condition can affect different parts of the body—just the legs, one side of the body, or all four limbs and the trunk.

Beyond movement difficulties, many children with cerebral palsy also experience associated conditions. These may include intellectual disabilities (though many children with CP have normal intelligence), seizures, vision or hearing problems, speech difficulties, and issues with eating or swallowing. Each child’s experience with cerebral palsy is unique, depending on which areas of the brain sustained damage and the severity of that injury.

The brain damage that causes cerebral palsy occurs before, during, or shortly after birth—typically within the first few years of life while the brain is still developing. When this damage happens during labor and delivery due to oxygen deprivation or trauma, it may indicate medical negligence.

Types of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is classified into several types based on the kind of movement disorder and which parts of the body are affected. Understanding your child’s specific type helps doctors develop appropriate treatment plans and helps families know what to expect.

Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common form, affecting approximately 70-80% of people with CP. This type is characterized by increased muscle tone, causing stiff, tight muscles and awkward movements. The stiffness typically worsens with movement and can lead to permanent muscle shortening if not addressed with therapy and treatment.

Spastic CP is further categorized by which limbs are affected:

• Spastic diplegia primarily affects the legs, with little to no impairment in the arms
• Spastic hemiplegia affects one side of the body (either right or left)
• Spastic quadriplegia is the most severe form, affecting all four limbs, the trunk, and the face

Children with spastic cerebral palsy often walk on their toes or with a scissored gait due to tight leg muscles. They may have difficulty releasing objects from their grasp and struggle with fine motor tasks requiring precise hand movements.

Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy (Athetoid CP)

Dyskinetic or athetoid cerebral palsy affects approximately 10-15% of people with CP. This type involves fluctuating muscle tone—alternating between too tight and too loose—which results in involuntary, uncontrolled movements. These movements may be slow and writhing (athetosis) or rapid and jerky (chorea).

The involuntary movements typically affect the hands, arms, feet, and legs. In some cases, the face and tongue are also affected, leading to drooling and difficulty with speech. These movements often increase during periods of emotional stress and disappear during sleep.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy frequently results from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) or severe jaundice (kernicterus) during the newborn period. When these conditions arise from medical negligence—such as failure to monitor oxygen levels or treat dangerous bilirubin levels—families may have grounds for legal action.

Ataxic Cerebral Palsy

Ataxic cerebral palsy is the least common type, affecting approximately 5-10% of people with CP. This form primarily impacts balance and coordination, affecting depth perception and precise movements. Children with ataxic CP often appear unsteady and shaky, similar to someone who is intoxicated.

Walking is typically challenging for children with ataxic cerebral palsy. They may walk with their feet spread far apart to improve stability and frequently stumble or fall. Fine motor tasks requiring precise coordination—such as writing, buttoning clothes, or using eating utensils—are particularly difficult.

This type of cerebral palsy results from damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination.

Mixed Cerebral Palsy

Some children have symptoms of more than one type of cerebral palsy, most commonly a combination of spastic and dyskinetic features. This occurs when multiple areas of the brain sustain damage. Mixed CP often indicates more extensive brain injury and may be associated with more complex medical needs.

If you suspect your child’s diagnosis involves medical negligence during birth, a birth injury lawyer can help you understand whether the care provided met accepted medical standards.

Signs and Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

Recognizing cerebral palsy early is critical for beginning therapies that can improve outcomes. However, symptoms vary widely depending on the type and severity of CP, and signs may not be immediately apparent at birth. Many parents first notice developmental delays or unusual movement patterns as their baby grows.

Early Warning Signs in Infants

During the first few months of life, babies who will later be diagnosed with cerebral palsy may exhibit subtle signs that something is wrong:

• Unusual muscle tone (baby feels either too stiff or too floppy when picked up)
• Feeding difficulties, including poor sucking reflex or frequent choking
• Delayed motor milestones (not holding head up, rolling over, or sitting at expected ages)
• Preference for using one side of the body before 12 months
• Persistent primitive reflexes beyond the age they should disappear
• Unusual postures, such as arching the back frequently
• Difficulty bringing hands together or to the mouth

Low Apgar scores at birth—especially at 5 and 10 minutes—may indicate a baby experienced oxygen deprivation or other complications that could lead to brain damage. If your newborn required extensive resuscitation or had seizures within the first 48 hours of life, these are significant red flags that should prompt close developmental monitoring.

Symptoms in Older Babies and Toddlers

As children approach their first birthday and beyond, symptoms of cerebral palsy become more apparent:

• Significant delays in reaching motor milestones (not crawling by 12 months, not walking by 18-24 months)
• Abnormal crawling patterns, such as scooting on the buttocks or crawling in a lopsided manner
• Walking on toes or with an unusual gait
• Difficulty with fine motor skills like grasping small objects or self-feeding
• Continued drooling beyond the typical age
• Difficulty with coordination and balance
• Speech delays or difficulty forming words

Associated Symptoms and Conditions

Beyond movement difficulties, children with cerebral palsy often experience related conditions:

Seizure disorders affect approximately 30-50% of children with CP, particularly those with spastic quadriplegia. These may range from subtle absence seizures to generalized tonic-clonic seizures requiring medication management.

Intellectual disabilities occur in some but not all children with cerebral palsy. Many children with CP, particularly those with spastic diplegia or hemiplegia, have normal cognitive function. However, children with more severe forms, especially those resulting from significant oxygen deprivation at birth, may experience cognitive impairments.

Vision and hearing problems are common, including strabismus (crossed eyes), difficulty with visual tracking, cortical visual impairment, and sensorineural hearing loss.

Speech and communication difficulties can result from poor muscle control of the mouth, tongue, and throat. Some children may require alternative communication methods, such as communication boards or electronic devices.

Eating and swallowing problems affect many children with CP, leading to nutritional challenges, increased risk of aspiration, and the potential need for feeding tubes.

Chronic pain often develops as children grow, particularly in the hips, spine, and joints due to abnormal muscle tension and positioning.

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, seek evaluation from a pediatric neurologist or developmental specialist. Early diagnosis leads to earlier intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes. Many parents discover only later that their child’s condition resulted from preventable errors during delivery—contact a birth injury attorney to review your medical records if you have concerns.

What Causes Cerebral Palsy?

Understanding the causes of cerebral palsy is complicated because the condition can result from various factors affecting the developing brain. However, research has identified several common causes and risk factors, many of which relate to events during pregnancy and childbirth.

Brain Damage Before Birth (Prenatal Causes)

The majority of cerebral palsy cases—approximately 70-80%—result from brain damage that occurs before labor begins:

Congenital brain malformations can occur when the brain doesn’t develop properly during pregnancy. Genetic mutations, exposure to toxins, or infections during pregnancy can disrupt normal brain development.

Maternal infections during pregnancy pose significant risks to the developing fetal brain. Infections such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), rubella, toxoplasmosis, and Zika virus can damage the baby’s brain. Healthcare providers should screen for and treat maternal infections appropriately to protect the baby.

Stroke in utero can occur when blood vessels in the baby’s developing brain become blocked or rupture, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Blood clotting disorders, maternal high blood pressure, and placental problems increase stroke risk.

Rh incompatibility occurs when the mother’s blood type is incompatible with the baby’s, potentially leading to severe jaundice and brain damage if not properly managed. Modern prenatal care includes Rh screening and treatment to prevent this complication.

Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) involves damage to the white matter of the brain, particularly common in premature infants. This condition can result from infection, oxygen deprivation, or unstable blood flow to the brain.

Brain Damage During Birth (Perinatal Causes)

Complications during labor and delivery account for approximately 10-20% of cerebral palsy cases—and these are the situations most likely to involve medical malpractice:

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) occurs when the baby’s brain doesn’t receive adequate oxygen or blood flow during delivery. This can result from numerous complications, including:

• Umbilical cord problems (prolapsed cord, nuchal cord, true knot)
• Placental abruption (placenta separating from the uterine wall prematurely)
• Uterine rupture
• Severe maternal blood pressure problems
• Prolonged or arrested labor
• Shoulder dystocia with prolonged delivery time

Birth asphyxia represents severe oxygen deprivation that can cause permanent brain damage within minutes. Warning signs include abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, thick meconium in the amniotic fluid, and low Apgar scores at birth. When medical teams fail to recognize fetal distress or don’t respond quickly enough with interventions like emergency cesarean section, the resulting brain damage may constitute negligence.

Birth trauma from difficult deliveries can cause brain bleeding or damage. Improper use of delivery instruments—particularly vacuum extractors or forceps—can cause skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhage, and brain damage. Excessive force during delivery, particularly when managing shoulder dystocia, can also result in oxygen deprivation.

Untreated severe jaundice in newborns can lead to kernicterus, a type of brain damage caused by extremely high bilirubin levels. Modern healthcare standards require monitoring bilirubin levels and treating dangerous elevations with phototherapy or exchange transfusions. Failure to diagnose and treat newborn jaundice appropriately constitutes medical negligence.

Brain Damage After Birth (Postnatal Causes)

A smaller percentage of cerebral palsy cases result from brain damage during the first few years of life:

• Serious infections affecting the brain (meningitis, encephalitis)
• Traumatic head injuries from accidents or abuse
• Near-drowning or suffocation incidents
• Severe untreated seizures
• Exposure to toxins such as lead

Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy

Certain factors increase the likelihood of cerebral palsy, though they don’t guarantee it will occur:

• Premature birth (before 37 weeks, especially before 32 weeks)
• Low birth weight (under 5.5 pounds)
• Multiple births (twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples)
• Assisted reproductive technology pregnancies
• Breech presentation at delivery
• Maternal health conditions (high blood pressure, thyroid problems, seizures)
• Complicated or prolonged labor
• Birth injuries or trauma

For families affected by cerebral palsy causes related to delivery complications, understanding the specific events during labor and birth is critical for determining whether medical negligence played a role.

When Is Cerebral Palsy Caused by Medical Malpractice?

Not all cases of cerebral palsy result from preventable medical errors—some occur despite excellent medical care. However, research suggests that a significant percentage of cerebral palsy cases involve birth injuries that could have been prevented with appropriate monitoring, timely intervention, and adherence to medical standards of care.

Medical malpractice during birth occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure directly causes harm to the baby. In the context of cerebral palsy, this typically involves situations where the medical team failed to:

Recognize Fetal Distress

Modern labor and delivery units use continuous electronic fetal monitoring to track the baby’s heart rate and identify signs of distress. Concerning patterns—such as late decelerations, minimal variability, or prolonged bradycardia—indicate the baby isn’t tolerating labor well and may not be receiving adequate oxygen.

Medical malpractice may occur when:

• Staff fails to properly interpret fetal heart tracings
• Concerning patterns are ignored or dismissed
• Appropriate interventions aren’t implemented promptly
• The medical team doesn’t notify the physician of dangerous patterns
• Monitoring strips aren’t reviewed frequently enough

When fetal monitoring reveals distress, immediate action is required—whether that means changing the mother’s position, providing oxygen, administering fluids, stopping Pitocin, or proceeding to emergency cesarean section.

Respond Appropriately to Obstetric Emergencies

Certain complications during labor and delivery require immediate intervention to prevent brain damage:

Delayed cesarean section constitutes one of the most common forms of birth injury malpractice. When evidence indicates the baby is in distress or vaginal delivery is not progressing safely, the medical team must make timely decisions about surgical delivery. The standard “decision-to-incision” time for emergency c-sections is 30 minutes, though truly urgent situations require even faster response.

Umbilical cord complications such as cord prolapse (when the cord slips through the cervix ahead of the baby) create immediate, life-threatening emergencies requiring delivery within minutes. Similarly, tight nuchal cords or true knots can restrict blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Placental abruption and uterine rupture are catastrophic complications requiring immediate surgical intervention. Delays in recognizing these emergencies or responding quickly enough can result in severe oxygen deprivation and permanent brain damage.

Shoulder dystocia occurs when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pubic bone after the head delivers. This complication requires specific maneuvers performed in a precise sequence. Using excessive force, applying improper traction, or failing to follow established protocols can prolong the delivery and cause both nerve injuries and oxygen deprivation.

Properly Manage High-Risk Pregnancies

Certain maternal and fetal conditions require specialized monitoring and care:

• Maternal diabetes (which can lead to large babies at higher risk for delivery complications)
• Maternal high blood pressure or preeclampsia
• Multiple gestations (twins, triplets)
• History of previous pregnancy complications
• Suspected macrosomia (large baby)
• Post-term pregnancy (beyond 41-42 weeks)

Malpractice may occur when providers fail to identify high-risk conditions, don’t provide appropriate monitoring, or don’t make timely recommendations for interventions like planned cesarean section when indicated.

Use Delivery Instruments Properly

Vacuum extractors and forceps can assist delivery when used appropriately by skilled practitioners. However, improper use—including excessive force, too many attempts, or use in contraindicated situations—can cause skull fractures, brain bleeding, and oxygen deprivation. Some medical centers have restricted or eliminated the use of these instruments due to injury risks.

Treat Newborn Complications Appropriately

After birth, newborns may require immediate interventions:

Resuscitation must be performed according to Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) guidelines when babies don’t breathe effectively at birth. Delays or errors in resuscitation can worsen oxygen deprivation and brain damage.

Therapeutic hypothermia (cooling therapy) is the standard treatment for moderate to severe HIE if initiated within six hours of birth. This treatment involves cooling the baby’s body temperature to 33.5°C (92.3°F) for 72 hours, which can significantly reduce the severity of brain damage. Failure to recognize HIE and provide cooling therapy within the treatment window may constitute negligence.

Jaundice monitoring and treatment must occur according to established protocols. Severe, untreated jaundice leads to kernicterus, causing a specific pattern of brain damage that produces athetoid cerebral palsy.

Communicate Effectively

Medical errors often stem from communication failures—nurses not informing physicians of concerning fetal heart patterns, one shift not properly updating the next shift about complications, or multiple providers not coordinating care. These system failures can have devastating consequences.

If your child’s cerebral palsy resulted from events during labor and delivery, particularly if they involved complications requiring emergency intervention, consult with a cerebral palsy lawyer who can review your medical records and help determine whether the care provided met accepted standards.

How Cerebral Palsy Is Diagnosed

Cerebral palsy diagnosis typically occurs through a process of developmental monitoring, clinical evaluation, and specialized testing. Because symptoms vary widely and may not be immediately apparent at birth, diagnosis often happens gradually as developmental delays become evident.

Developmental Monitoring

Pediatricians track developmental milestones at well-child visits, including:

• Head control (expected by 3-4 months)
• Rolling over (expected by 4-6 months)
• Sitting independently (expected by 6-8 months)
• Crawling (expected by 7-10 months)
• Standing with support (expected by 9-12 months)
• Walking independently (expected by 12-18 months)

When children miss multiple milestones or show unusual movement patterns, pediatricians typically refer to specialists for further evaluation.

Neurological Examination

Pediatric neurologists conduct thorough physical and neurological examinations, assessing:

• Muscle tone (whether muscles are too tight, too loose, or fluctuating)
• Reflexes (whether primitive reflexes persist beyond expected ages)
• Posture and movement patterns (watching how the child moves, walks, and positions their body)
• Coordination and balance (evaluating fine and gross motor skills)
• Associated symptoms (checking for vision problems, hearing issues, speech delays)

The neurologist will also take a detailed history of the pregnancy, labor, delivery, and newborn period, looking for risk factors and potential causes of brain damage.

Imaging Studies

Brain imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and identify the location and extent of brain damage:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed pictures of the brain’s structure and can identify:

• Areas of brain damage or malformation
• Periventricular leukomalacia (damaged white matter)
• Evidence of stroke or bleeding
• Abnormalities in brain development

Computed tomography (CT) scans may be used when MRI isn’t available or when rapid imaging is needed, though MRI provides more detailed information.

Cranial ultrasound may be performed in premature infants while still in the NICU to identify early signs of brain bleeding or damage.

Imaging findings help determine the likely timing and cause of the brain injury—whether it occurred before, during, or after birth. This information becomes particularly important when investigating whether medical negligence contributed to the condition.

Additional Testing

Depending on the child’s symptoms and clinical presentation, doctors may order:

• Electroencephalogram (EEG) to evaluate for seizure activity
• Vision and hearing tests to identify sensory impairments
• Genetic testing to rule out genetic conditions that may mimic cerebral palsy
• Metabolic testing to exclude metabolic disorders
• Gait analysis (for older children) to evaluate walking patterns and plan interventions

Timing of Diagnosis

Many children receive a cerebral palsy diagnosis between 12 and 24 months of age, when motor delays become most apparent. However, some children with mild CP aren’t diagnosed until age 3-5 years, while infants with severe brain injury may be diagnosed in the first few months of life based on neurological examination and imaging findings.

Early diagnosis matters tremendously because it allows families to begin interventions during the critical early years when the brain has the most plasticity. If you suspect your child has developmental delays or unusual movement patterns, don’t hesitate to request evaluation by a specialist—early intervention programs can make a significant difference in outcomes.

For families whose children suffered birth asphyxia or other complications during delivery, reviewing the medical records with both a medical expert and an attorney can help determine whether the care provided contributed to your child’s condition.

Treatment Options for Cerebral Palsy

While cerebral palsy has no cure, comprehensive treatment can significantly improve a child’s function, independence, and quality of life. The most effective approach involves a coordinated team of specialists providing therapies and interventions tailored to each child’s specific needs.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy forms the cornerstone of cerebral palsy treatment, helping children develop gross motor skills, improve strength and flexibility, and prevent complications from abnormal muscle tone.

Physical therapists work on:

• Stretching tight muscles to maintain range of motion
• Strengthening weak muscles to improve function
• Improving balance and coordination
• Teaching age-appropriate motor skills (rolling, sitting, crawling, walking)
• Gait training and mobility
• Preventing muscle contractures and deformities

Treatment often begins in infancy and continues throughout childhood and adolescence. The frequency and intensity vary based on the child’s needs, but many children benefit from several sessions weekly, particularly during early development.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists focus on fine motor skills and activities of daily living, helping children gain independence in:

• Self-care tasks (dressing, feeding, grooming, toileting)
• Hand and finger control for manipulating objects
• Using adaptive equipment and assistive devices
• Developing strategies to work around physical limitations
• School-related tasks (writing, using computers, organizing materials)
• Play skills important for development and socialization

Occupational therapy also addresses sensory processing issues that often accompany cerebral palsy.

Speech and Language Therapy

Many children with cerebral palsy experience communication challenges due to poor muscle control affecting the mouth, tongue, and throat. Speech-language pathologists help with:

• Improving articulation and speech clarity
• Building vocabulary and language skills
• Developing alternative communication methods when needed (sign language, communication boards, speech-generating devices)
• Addressing feeding and swallowing problems
• Managing drooling

Early intervention with speech therapy can prevent frustration and social isolation while supporting cognitive and academic development.

Medications

Several medications help manage cerebral palsy symptoms:

Muscle relaxants such as baclofen or diazepam reduce spasticity, though they can cause side effects including drowsiness and weakness.

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections temporarily relax specific muscles, reducing spasticity for approximately 3-6 months. This treatment works particularly well for isolated muscle groups and can delay or prevent the need for surgery.

Anti-seizure medications control epilepsy, which affects approximately one-third of children with cerebral palsy.

Pain medications address the chronic pain many individuals with CP experience due to abnormal muscle tension and joint stress.

Surgical Interventions

When less invasive treatments don’t adequately address problems, surgery may help:

Orthopedic surgery corrects bone and joint problems resulting from abnormal muscle pull, including:

• Muscle lengthening procedures to release tight tendons
• Tendon transfers to improve muscle balance
• Osteotomies (cutting and repositioning bones) to correct deformities
• Hip surgery to address dislocation or subluxation
• Spine surgery for severe scoliosis

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a neurosurgical procedure that selectively cuts nerve roots contributing to spasticity in the legs. This surgery can significantly reduce spasticity and improve mobility in carefully selected candidates, though it requires intensive physical therapy afterward for optimal outcomes.

Baclofen pump placement involves surgically implanting a device that delivers continuous medication directly into the spinal fluid, providing better spasticity control with fewer side effects than oral medications.

Assistive Devices and Equipment

Appropriate equipment supports function and prevents complications:

• Orthotics (braces and splints) to maintain proper positioning and prevent contractures
• Mobility devices (walkers, wheelchairs, strollers) matched to the child’s abilities
• Adaptive seating providing proper support and positioning
• Communication devices for children who cannot speak clearly
• Feeding equipment to support safe, efficient nutrition
• Computer access technology for education and communication

Complementary Therapies

Many families explore additional therapies to supplement traditional medical treatment:

• Hippotherapy (therapeutic horseback riding)
• Aquatic therapy
• Constraint-induced movement therapy
• Conductive education
• Massage therapy

While research on these approaches varies, many families report benefits in strength, coordination, and quality of life. Discuss any complementary therapies with your child’s medical team to ensure they complement rather than interfere with the treatment plan.

Educational Support

Children with cerebral palsy benefit from individualized education programs (IEPs) providing:

• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy during school hours
• Accommodations for physical limitations
• Assistive technology for learning
• Modified physical education
• Transition planning for life after school

Comprehensive cerebral palsy treatment requires significant financial resources. When medical negligence causes your child’s condition, a successful legal claim can provide compensation to cover these lifelong expenses.

Long-Term Prognosis and Life Expectancy

 

One of the first questions parents ask after a cerebral palsy diagnosis is “What does this mean for my child’s future?” The answer depends on numerous factors, including the type and severity of CP, associated conditions, and access to appropriate therapies and support.

Life Expectancy

The vast majority of children with cerebral palsy survive well into adulthood. According to research published in Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, life expectancy for people with CP varies significantly based on functional ability:

Mild cerebral palsy (children who walk independently and have normal cognitive function) typically has a normal or near-normal life expectancy. These individuals generally live into their 60s, 70s, or beyond.

Moderate cerebral palsy (children with some mobility limitations but who can walk with assistance or use wheelchairs independently) generally have good life expectancy, though slightly reduced compared to the general population.

Severe cerebral palsy (children with significant mobility limitations, intellectual disabilities, and medical complexities) have more variable life expectancy. Factors that most significantly impact longevity include:

• Severe feeding difficulties requiring tube feeding
• Significant respiratory problems
• Severe cognitive impairment
• Limited mobility (unable to sit, stand, or roll)
• Frequent, poorly controlled seizures

However, even children with significant disabilities often live into their 20s, 30s, or beyond with appropriate medical care, nutrition, and infection prevention.

Functional Abilities

The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) provides a standardized way to describe function in children with cerebral palsy, using five levels:

Level I: Walks without limitations; performs gross motor skills like running and jumping, though with some difficulty

Level II: Walks without assistive devices but has limitations walking outdoors and in the community; may use wheeled mobility for long distances

Level III: Walks using hand-held mobility devices indoors; may use wheeled mobility outdoors and in the community

Level IV: Self-mobility with limitations; children may use powered mobility or be transported in manual wheelchairs

Level V: Severely limited self-mobility even with assistive technology

Most children’s GMFCS level becomes stable by age 4-6 years, helping families and therapists set realistic goals and plan for equipment needs.

Cognitive Development and Education

Cognitive abilities vary tremendously among children with cerebral palsy. Approximately 30-50% of children with CP have intellectual disabilities, but many have normal or above-average intelligence. The type of cerebral palsy correlates somewhat with cognitive outcomes:

• Children with spastic diplegia (primarily affecting the legs) most often have normal intelligence
• Children with spastic quadriplegia (affecting all four limbs) more frequently have cognitive impairments
• Children with dyskinetic CP may have normal intelligence despite severe physical disabilities

Never assume a child with severe physical disabilities lacks cognitive ability—many highly intelligent individuals with CP use alternative communication methods to express themselves. Appropriate testing, accommodations, and assistive technology allow many children with cerebral palsy to participate in mainstream education.

Independence and Quality of Life

Many adults with cerebral palsy live independently, work, drive modified vehicles, attend college, develop relationships, and lead fulfilling lives. Others require varying levels of support but still enjoy meaningful activities, relationships, and community participation.

Factors that improve outcomes and quality of life include:

• Early, intensive therapy starting in infancy
• Access to appropriate medical care and interventions
• Proper nutrition and management of feeding difficulties
• Prevention of secondary complications
• Strong family and community support
• Educational opportunities matched to abilities
• Assistive technology supporting independence
• Adaptive sports and recreation opportunities

Common Secondary Conditions

Adults with cerebral palsy often develop secondary conditions requiring ongoing management:

• Chronic pain in joints, muscles, and spine from years of abnormal muscle tension
• Arthritis developing earlier than typical due to joint stress
• Osteoporosis from limited weight-bearing and certain medications
• Fatigue from the extra energy required for movement
• Depression and anxiety related to chronic pain, social isolation, or life challenges
• Dental problems from medication side effects, feeding issues, or difficulty with oral care
• Gastrointestinal problems including reflux, constipation, and feeding difficulties

Proactive management of these conditions through regular medical care, appropriate medications, therapy, and lifestyle modifications improves quality of life.

Understanding the cerebral palsy life expectancy and long-term needs helps families plan for the future. When CP results from medical negligence, compensation from a successful lawsuit can fund the therapies, equipment, medical care, and support services your child needs throughout their lifetime.

Financial Costs of Cerebral Palsy

Raising a child with cerebral palsy involves significant expenses throughout their lifetime. Understanding these costs helps families plan and underscores the importance of seeking appropriate compensation when medical negligence caused the condition.

Medical Expenses

Healthcare costs for children with cerebral palsy far exceed those for typically developing children:

Direct medical costs include:

• Regular specialist appointments (neurologists, orthopedists, physiatrists)
• Therapy services (physical, occupational, speech therapy multiple times weekly)
• Medications and medical supplies
• Surgeries and hospitalizations
• Emergency care for complications
• Dental care (often requiring sedation)
• Vision and hearing care

Equipment and assistive devices represent major expenses:

• Wheelchairs (manual and powered), typically replaced every 3-5 years as children grow ($2,000-$40,000 each)
• Orthotics and braces, replaced frequently during growth ($500-$5,000)
• Adaptive seating ($1,000-$10,000)
• Communication devices ($2,000-$15,000)
• Vehicle modifications for wheelchair access ($10,000-$50,000)
• Computer access technology ($500-$5,000)
• Hospital beds and patient lifts ($1,000-$10,000)

Research published in JAMA Pediatrics estimated that direct medical costs for a child with cerebral palsy average approximately $10,000-$15,000 per year beyond typical healthcare costs, with more severely affected children incurring costs of $25,000-$50,000 or more annually.

Therapy and Intervention

Insurance coverage for therapy services varies but rarely covers the intensity many children need for optimal outcomes. Families often pay out-of-pocket for:

• Additional therapy sessions beyond insurance limits ($100-$200 per session)
• Specialized intensive therapy programs ($3,000-$10,000 for multi-week programs)
• Aquatic therapy, hippotherapy, and complementary treatments ($50-$150 per session)

Over 18 years of childhood, therapy costs can easily reach $200,000-$500,000.

Home and Vehicle Modifications

Making a home accessible for a child with mobility limitations requires significant investment:

• Wheelchair ramps and accessible entrances ($2,000-$20,000)
• Bathroom modifications (roll-in showers, accessible toilets) ($5,000-$25,000)
• Widened doorways and hallways ($1,000-$10,000)
• Accessible bedroom setup ($2,000-$10,000)
• Ceiling lifts ($3,000-$15,000)

Vehicle modifications to transport a child in a wheelchair cost $10,000-$50,000, with accessible vans costing $40,000-$80,000.

Educational Costs

While public schools must provide special education services, families often need supplemental support:

• Private therapy during school breaks
• Tutoring and academic support
• Specialized summer programs
• Educational technology and software
• College support services for students with disabilities

Lost Income and Opportunity Costs

Raising a child with significant disabilities often requires one parent to reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely to:

• Attend frequent medical appointments
• Coordinate care among multiple specialists
• Provide hands-on care the child requires
• Manage therapies and home programs

The lifetime earnings lost by a parent leaving the workforce can reach $500,000-$1,000,000 or more.

Adult Lifetime Costs

As children with cerebral palsy become adults, costs continue:

• Ongoing medical care and medications
• Replacement equipment and assistive devices
• Residential support or in-home caregiving (potentially $50,000-$150,000 annually)
• Supported employment services
• Transportation assistance

The CDC estimates the lifetime cost of cerebral palsy at approximately $1 million per person for direct medical costs and indirect costs combined, with more severely affected individuals incurring costs of $2 million or more.

How Legal Compensation Helps

When cerebral palsy results from medical malpractice, a successful lawsuit can provide compensation covering:

• All past and future medical expenses
• Therapy and rehabilitation throughout life
• Equipment and assistive technology
• Home and vehicle modifications
• Lost parental income and earning capacity
• Educational and vocational support
• Pain and suffering
• Reduced quality of life

This compensation ensures your child receives the care, therapies, and support they need regardless of insurance limitations or family financial resources. Contact a birth injury attorney to discuss whether your child’s condition may warrant legal action.

Filing a Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit

If you believe your child’s cerebral palsy resulted from medical negligence during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, you may be entitled to compensation through a medical malpractice lawsuit. Understanding the legal process helps you make informed decisions about your family’s future.

When to Consider Legal Action

Not every case of cerebral palsy involves malpractice—some occur despite excellent medical care. However, you should consult a birth injury attorney if:

• Your baby experienced significant complications during labor or delivery
• Fetal monitoring showed signs of distress that weren’t addressed appropriately
• There were delays in performing an emergency cesarean section
• Your baby required extensive resuscitation at birth
• Your newborn had very low Apgar scores
• Your baby was diagnosed with HIE after birth
• Your child had seizures in the first days of life
• The medical team’s explanations about what happened seem incomplete or contradictory
• Medical records mention “adverse events” or complications during delivery

Even if you’re unsure whether malpractice occurred, most birth injury law firms offer free case evaluations. An experienced attorney can review your medical records and help determine whether the care provided met accepted standards.

Elements of a Medical Malpractice Case

To succeed in a birth injury lawsuit, your attorney must prove four elements:

Duty: The healthcare providers had a duty to provide care meeting accepted medical standards. This element is usually straightforward—doctors and nurses owe a duty of care to their patients.

Breach: The healthcare providers failed to meet the standard of care. This requires proving that the actions taken (or not taken) fell below what a reasonable medical professional would have done in similar circumstances. Medical expert testimony is critical for establishing breach.

Causation: The breach directly caused your child’s injuries. This often represents the most challenging element in birth injury cases because you must prove the brain damage resulted from the specific negligent acts, not from unpreventable complications.

Damages: Your child suffered actual harm requiring compensation. In cerebral palsy cases, damages include medical expenses, therapy costs, equipment needs, lost future earning capacity, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life.

The Role of Medical Experts

Medical malpractice cases require testimony from qualified medical experts who can explain:

• The appropriate standard of care for the situation
• How the healthcare providers’ actions fell below that standard
• The medical connection between the negligent care and your child’s injuries
• The nature and extent of your child’s damages and future needs

Your attorney will work with maternal-fetal medicine specialists, obstetricians, neonatologists, neurologists, and other experts who review the medical records and provide opinions about the care provided.

Statute of Limitations

Every state has deadlines for filing medical malpractice lawsuits, known as statutes of limitations. These vary significantly:

• Some states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury
• Others allow 2-3 years from when the injury was discovered
• Many states have special provisions for minors, allowing lawsuits to be filed until the child reaches a certain age (often 18-21)
• Some states have “statute of repose” laws creating absolute deadlines regardless of when injury was discovered

Because these laws are complex and vary by state, it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as you suspect malpractice. Missing the statute of limitations deadline means losing your right to compensation forever, no matter how strong your case.

For specific information about time limits in your state, see our guide on birth injury statute of limitations.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Cerebral palsy settlements and verdicts vary tremendously based on the severity of injury and the specific facts of each case, but compensation typically includes:

Economic damages:

• All past medical expenses related to the injury
• Future lifetime medical costs (expert economists calculate these projections)
• Therapy and rehabilitation expenses
• Costs of equipment, assistive devices, and modifications
• Lost parental income and future earning capacity
• The child’s lost future earning capacity
• Special education and support service costs

Non-economic damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Emotional distress
• Loss of normal childhood experiences
• Reduced quality of life

Settlements and verdicts in cerebral palsy cases involving severe injuries often reach several million dollars, reflecting the substantial lifetime costs of caring for a child with significant disabilities.

The Lawsuit Process Timeline

Birth injury litigation typically takes 2-4 years from initial filing to resolution:

Initial consultation and investigation (2-6 months): Your attorney reviews medical records, consults with medical experts, and determines whether you have a viable case.

Filing the lawsuit (month 6): If experts believe malpractice occurred, your attorney files a formal complaint in court, initiating the lawsuit.

Discovery phase (12-24 months): Both sides exchange information through written questions (interrogatories), document requests, and depositions (recorded testimony under oath). Medical experts review records and form opinions.

Settlement negotiations (ongoing): Most birth injury cases settle before trial. Settlement discussions may occur throughout the process, with serious negotiations often happening after discovery when both sides understand the strengths and weaknesses of the case.

Trial (if necessary): If settlement isn’t reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a jury hears evidence and determines whether malpractice occurred and what damages should be awarded. Trials can last days or weeks.

Appeal (potentially): Either side may appeal an unfavorable verdict, extending the timeline further.

Choosing a Birth Injury Attorney

The complexity of birth injury cases requires attorneys with specific experience and resources:

Look for:

• Significant experience specifically with birth injury cases (not just general malpractice)
• Access to top medical experts in relevant specialties
• Resources to fund expensive litigation (medical record review, expert witnesses, depositions)
• Track record of substantial settlements and verdicts in birth injury cases
• Compassionate, clear communication with families
• Contingency fee arrangements (you pay nothing unless you win)

Most birth injury attorneys offer free initial consultations and work on contingency, meaning they receive a percentage of any settlement or verdict (typically 33-40%) but collect nothing if you don’t win. This arrangement allows families to pursue justice without upfront legal fees.

Don’t let concerns about cost prevent you from exploring your options—contact a qualified birth injury lawyer to discuss your case at no charge.

Finding a Birth Injury Lawyer

Taking legal action when your child has been injured is a difficult decision. You’re already dealing with the emotional weight of your child’s diagnosis and the practical challenges of coordinating care. However, consulting with an attorney doesn’t commit you to anything—it simply gives you information to make an informed choice about your family’s future.

Why Specialized Experience Matters

Birth injury cases differ significantly from other medical malpractice cases. They require:

• Deep understanding of obstetric and neonatal medicine
• Familiarity with fetal monitoring interpretation
• Knowledge of labor and delivery standards of care
• Relationships with top medical experts willing to testify
• Understanding of how to prove causation in complex neurological injuries
• Ability to calculate lifetime damages for a child with permanent disabilities

An attorney who primarily handles car accidents or general negligence cases likely lacks the specialized knowledge these cases require. Look specifically for firms that focus on birth injuries and medical malpractice.

Questions to Ask During Your Consultation

When meeting with potential attorneys, ask:

• How many birth injury cases have you handled?
• What were the outcomes of those cases?
• How many cases have you taken to trial?
• Which medical experts do you work with?
• How will you determine if I have a case?
• What is your fee structure?
• How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
• What is the likely timeline for my case?
• What do you need from me to get started?

Pay attention not just to the answers but to how the attorney communicates. You want someone who explains complex medical and legal concepts clearly, who listens to your concerns, and who treats you with respect and compassion.

Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid attorneys who:

• Guarantee a specific outcome or settlement amount
• Pressure you to sign a retainer agreement immediately
• Seem unfamiliar with birth injury cases specifically
• Don’t discuss the need for medical expert review
• Can’t explain their process clearly
• Have poor communication or don’t return calls
• Require upfront fees for a birth injury case
• Make the process seem quick or easy

What to Bring to Your Consultation

Help your attorney evaluate your case by gathering:

• Your child’s medical records from birth
• Prenatal care records
• Labor and delivery records
• Newborn/NICU records
• Subsequent medical records documenting the diagnosis and treatment
• Any imaging studies (MRI, CT scans, ultrasounds)
• A timeline of events as you remember them
• Questions and concerns about the care provided

Many attorneys can begin the evaluation with just basic information and will obtain detailed medical records as the investigation proceeds.

Understanding Contingency Fees

Most birth injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning:

• You pay no upfront legal fees or costs
• The attorney advances all expenses of litigation (expert fees, record copying, court costs)
• The attorney receives a percentage of any settlement or verdict (typically 33-40%)
• If you don’t win, you owe nothing

This arrangement allows families to pursue justice regardless of their financial situation and aligns the attorney’s interests with yours—they only succeed when you do.

Taking the First Step

If you believe medical negligence during pregnancy, labor, or delivery caused your child’s cerebral palsy, don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from learning about your options. A free consultation with an experienced birth injury attorney provides answers without any obligation.

Statute of limitations deadlines are real and unforgiving—waiting too long means losing your right to compensation forever. Your family deserves answers about what happened, and your child deserves the resources needed for the best possible care and quality of life.

Contact a birth injury attorney today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Understanding your legal rights is the first step toward securing your child’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cerebral Palsy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment