How Does Cerebral Palsy Affect Walking?

Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that impairs speech, thought, movement and coordination. Although most cerebral palsy patients are born with this condition, the symptoms of cerebral palsy may not be fully apparent until a child is around 3 years old (as development highlights cognitive and muscular disabilities).

Cerebral Palsy and Walking

Cerebral palsy is a developmental disorder brought on by different neurological conditions. While it often varies in type and intensity, most forms of cerebral palsy affect walking in some way. Some conditions affect muscle tone, while others may make coordination difficult. Some forms of cerebral palsy may even affect posture, making walking more challenging and sometimes impossible.

Cerebral Palsy and Muscle Control

Some children with cerebral palsy have problems with muscle tone. The muscles may be spastic, causing them to be flexed and rigid. Alternatively, they may be flaccid, "floppy" and weak. In either case, problems with muscle tone not only make leg movements challenging, but it can make standing difficult. Some forms of cerebral palsy cause problems with coordination and walking even though muscle tone may not be the problem. For instance, ataxic cerebral palsy causes tremors and difficulties with depth perception. Children with this form of cerebral palsy often walk with a wide, staggering gait pattern. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy, on the other hand, causes uncontrollable writhing movements. This can also make coordinating the legs challenging, including when bearing weight and walking.
Learning to Walk With Cerebral Palsy


To succeed in walking, the child with cerebral palsy needs some assistance. Consult a physician or therapist who can help get the ball rolling for children with cerebral palsy who want to walk. Doctors may prescribe medications that keep symptoms in check, such as controlling spasms and muscle tone. Physical therapy can be crucial for children with cerebral palsy, to help them develop muscle control and improve their coordination. Children may also be more successful with walking if they use leg braces to improve stability, or assistive devices for walking, such as a specialized walker or crutches.

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