What Is the Prognosis for Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological condition that affects body movement and muscle coordination. There is no one general prognosis of cerebral palsy because the severity of the disability differs from case to case.

Life Expectancy

• Cerebral palsy is not a fatal disability. However, from time to time complications of CP have led to death.

Mental State

• Two-thirds of people with CP are mentally challenged and have trouble communicating with others. However, the remaining one-third of CP patients typically live relatively normal lives.

Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of cerebral palsy are weakened muscle coordination, lack of balance and dragging one leg while walking. Symptoms of the most severe cases might include seizures, inability to walk and inability to control bowels and/or bladder.

Treatment

• There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are several treatment methods to improve the quality of life of CP patients. Treatment commonly includes physical, occupational and/or speech therapy and may also include drugs and/or injections to relieve muscle spasms and/or seizures.

Cost

• As of 2003, the average lifetime expenses for cerebral palsy-related needs were $921,000. This would include expenses such as physical therapy and prescription medications.