Most cases of cerebral palsy are the result of pre-natal brain injuries or infections. For instance, if a mother comes down with German measles, chickenpox, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, syphilis, meningitis or encephalitis, then there is a good likelihood she may have a cerebral palsy child. Additionally, exposure to toxins, radiation or infections can also increase the risk of a gene mutation that will affect the baby's brain development. In some instances, a baby may have a stroke in the womb or may suffer from a lack of oxygen prior to birth. These are just some of the possible causes, although doctors can't pinpoint the exact culprit in about 80% of the cases.

Spastic Cerebral Palsy is the most common type of CP. With this diagnosis, children often have rigid muscles, jerky movements and difficulty walking. Spastic diplegia is a condition where the child's hip and leg muscles are very tight, with the legs crossed at the knee, which makes it extremely difficult to walk. Another condition, called spastic hemiplegia, is characterized by arms, legs and hands that are stiff or do not develop properly, which sometimes results in leg braces. Spastic quadriplegia is the most severe condition and affects the entire body and is usually accompanied by seizures, mental retardation and extreme difficulty walking or talking.

Another type of cerebral palsy is athetoid/dyskinetic, which is the second most common type. This cerebral palsy child has normal intelligence, but his or her body is afflicted with muscle problems. This child may have difficulty walking, sitting, speaking clearly and controlling facial muscles. Muscles may be very rigid or very weak with this condition and the individual may make writhing motions rather frequently. Grimacing and drooling are common afflictions within this group.

Two-thirds of cerebral palsy patients suffer from mental retardation. Intellectual impairments are most common with spastic CP, accompanied by quadriplegia. Children with epilepsy are also more likely to have limited mental capacity. About 50% of children with cerebral palsy have seizures, whether the symptoms are full-on convulsions or simply muscle twitches and mental confusion. No matter what the symptoms may be, the reality is that many people with CP are eligible to file for federal or state disability benefits. Applying for these benefits can improve access to care, cut medical expenses and increase opportunities for the child.

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