Signs of cerebral palsy are not always obvious in a newborn baby. They often emerge gradually as a baby develops and their movement patterns become easier to assess.
Many possible signs of cerebral palsy also have other explanations, so noticing one does not mean your baby necessarily has the condition.
Early Signs to Look Out For
Possible signs can include:
- seeming unusually stiff or floppy
- difficulty controlling the head
- unusual movements
- favouring one side of the body
- differences in kicking or reaching
- difficulties with feeding
- delays in developmental milestones.
As babies get older, delays with rolling, sitting, crawling or standing may become apparent.
Developmental Milestones
Milestones provide a useful guide to development, but babies do not all develop at exactly the same rate.
A delay is therefore something to discuss with a healthcare professional rather than a diagnosis in itself.
The NHS advises speaking to a health visitor or GP if you have concerns about a child's health or development.
Babies at Increased Risk
Some babies receive additional developmental monitoring because they have factors associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy.
These can include very premature birth and certain complications that could affect the brain.
Regular monitoring can help professionals identify developmental differences and arrange early support where appropriate.
What Should I Do If I Am Concerned?
Write down what you have noticed and discuss it with your health visitor or GP.
Videos of movements you are concerned about can sometimes help when a behaviour does not happen during an appointment.
If further assessment is appropriate, your child may be referred to a paediatric or child-development service.
Try Not to Diagnose from One Sign
Online information can help parents understand development, but cerebral palsy cannot be diagnosed from a checklist.
A professional assessment considers your baby's overall development, movement, muscle tone and medical history.
Our page When is Cerebral Palsy Diagnosed? explains what may happen next.
Sources and further information
Useful websites
- NHS: Cerebral palsy
Overview of cerebral palsy, symptoms, causes, treatment and support.
- NHS: Cerebral palsy diagnosis
Information about assessments, scans and other tests.