1. BY ABBIE GARETH AND EWAN G

2.  Cerebral palsy is a physical disability which affects 1 in 400 people in the UK.  A condition marked by impaired muscle coordination (spastic paralysis) and/or other disabilities, typically caused by damage to the brain before or at birth  It is caused by a problem in the parts of the brain responsible for controlling muscles. It affects the movement and co ordination of the person. A

3.  The symptoms of cerebral palsy normally become apparent during the first three years of a child's life.  The main symptoms are: -muscle stiffness or floppiness -muscle weakness -random and uncontrolled body movements -balance and co-ordination problems E

4.  There may be no obvious single reason why a child has cerebral palsy. The main causes of cerebral palsy include: -Infection in the early part of pregnancy -Lack of oxygen to the brain -Abnormal brain development -A genetic link (though this is quite rare) G

5.  There is no cure for cerebral palsy. However, there are numerous treatments available, which can treat many of its symptoms and help people with the condition to be as independent as possible.  These treatments include physiotherapy, occupational therapy and medication to relieve muscle stiffness and spasms. In some cases, surgery may also be needed. A

6.  Cerebral palsy is not a progressive condition. This means the original problem in the brain doesn't get worse with age, and life expectancy is usually unaffected.  However, the physical and emotional strain of living with a long-term condition such as cerebral palsy can put a great deal of stress on the body, which can cause further problems in later life. E