Paediatric Physiotherapy for Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. It results from damage to the developing brain, often before birth. CP can vary significantly in severity and can affect different parts of the body. Some children may have mild symptoms, while others may face more profound challenges. Paediatric Cerebral Palsy Physio is a key intervention used to improve independence and help children face daily challenges with confidence.
Although CP originates in the brain, it primarily affects the muscles, leading to challenges in muscle control, coordination, tone, reflexes, posture, and balance. This condition can also impact fine motor skills (small movements like picking up objects), gross motor skills (larger movements like walking and jumping), and oral motor functions (movements related to speaking and eating). For parents navigating this diagnosis, understanding the role of physiotherapy for cerebral palsy can be crucial in supporting their child’s development and enhancing their quality of life


Types of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy (CP) comes in several types, each affecting movement and muscle control in different ways. Understanding these types can help parents better grasp their child’s specific challenges and needs.
Spastic Cerebral Palsy
This is the most common type of CP, characterised by stiff muscles that make movements jerky or repetitive. Paediatric Cerebral palsy physiotherapy can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy
Children with dyskinetic CP experience slow and uncontrollable movements in their hands, feet, arms, or legs. A child physiotherapist can work on improving control and coordination.
Ataxic Cerebral Palsy
Ataxic CP affects balance and depth perception. Children with this type may walk unsteadily and have trouble with tasks requiring quick or precise movements, such as writing, buttoning a shirt, or reaching for objects. This form can make coordination difficult but doesn’t typically impact intellectual abilities. Cerebral palsy physio can help children improve their balance and coordination through targeted exercises.
Mixed Types
Some children have symptoms that don’t fit neatly into one category; they have a mixed type of CP. This means they might exhibit characteristics of more than one type of CP, making their condition unique and requiring a combination of treatment approaches, including physiotherapy for cerebral palsy.
How Common is Cerebral Palsy in Australia?
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in childhood, affecting approximately 34,000 Australians. Despite the challenges it presents, most individuals with CP lead healthy lives and can expect a normal lifespan. They can pursue education, employment, relationships, and hobbies just like anyone else.
Each year, around 600 to 700 infants in Australia are born with Cerebral Palsy. This means that while CP is a significant condition, many families across the country share similar experiences and can find support and community through services like cerebral palsy physiotherapy.
Causes of Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, often before birth. This can result from a variety of factors, including infections during pregnancy, lack of oxygen to the brain, or complications during birth. While CP is not curable, physiotherapy for cerebral palsy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Management and Treatment : How is Cerebral Palsy Treated?
Cerebral Palsy (CP) isn’t curable, but its symptoms and effects can be managed with the right treatments. The approach depends on how severe the condition is and how it affects your child. Treatments usually involve a team of professionals working together to provide comprehensive care, including paediatric cerebral palsy physio.
We Focus on Therapy for Cerebral Palsy
At Leaping Kids, we believe in the power of therapy to help children with CP improve their abilities and quality of life. Here are the key therapies we offer:
Paediatric Physical Therapy aims to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall movement. Through exercises that enhance motor skills, increase muscle tone, and promote better coordination, your child can become more independent in daily activities, improve their ability to walk, and enhance their overall mobility. Our child physiotherapists specialise in physiotherapy for cerebral palsy, ensuring your child receives the best care.
Speech Therapy is designed to improve communication skills for children who have difficulty speaking. This therapy includes exercises to strengthen the muscles used for speech, techniques to improve clarity, and tools to aid communication. Improved communication can reduce frustration and enhance social interactions.
How We Can Help:
At Leaping Kids, we provide cerebral palsy physiotherapy services throughout Sydney to help children with CP develop their abilities and achieve their potential. We are dedicated to offering personalised care and support to each child and their family.
In-Home Therapy: We come to your home to provide personalised care in a comfortable and familiar environment.
In-School Therapy: We offer therapy sessions at schools to ensure your child receives consistent support.
Mobile Services: Our team travels across Sydney, bringing our expert care directly to you.
We understand that every child is unique, and we’re committed to creating customised treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s development and well-being through physiotherapy for cerebral palsy..
A Message from Leaping Kids
At Leaping Kids, we understand that a diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP) can be overwhelming and may leave you wondering if you’re to blame. CP often occurs due to a combination of unpredictable factors, and it’s rarely anyone’s fault. While CP is a serious condition that can cause disabilities, advances in modern medicine and assistive technology mean there are new treatments and tools available to help manage its symptoms and effects, allowing people with CP to live fuller lives. Contact us now to arrange a consultation and discover how we can work together to enhance your child’s mobility and quality of life. Let’s make each step forward a victory.