What Is Cerebral Palsy (CP)?

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Cerebral palsy, also referred to as CP, is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development; before, during, or shortly after birth; or during infancy. Thus, these disorders are not caused by problems in the muscles or nerves. Instead, faulty development or damage to motor areas in the brain disrupt the brain's ability to adequately control movement and posture.

"Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" to muscle weakness/poor control. Cerebral palsy itself is not progressive (i.e. brain damage does not get worse); however, secondary conditions, such as muscle spasticity, can develop which may get better over time, get worse, or remain the same. Cerebral palsy is not communicable. It is not a disease and should not be referred to as such. Although cerebral palsy is not "curable" in the accepted sense, training and therapy can help improve function.

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Our mission is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people affected by cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

UCP is local, providing Adult Day Programs in both San Diego and Escondido, Assistive Technology, Children's Services including a Toy Lending Library, Equipment Recycling, Family Support, Grants & Funding, Information & Referral and Respitality.

UCP serves thousands of people in San Diego County every year through our programs and services.

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