Physical exam for cerebral palsy

During the physical exam of a baby suspected of having cerebral palsy, the health professional will:

• Measure the size of the baby's head with a tape measure. The size is compared with a chart listing the expected head size for the baby's age and weight.
• Check the baby's body for physical signs of cerebral palsy, such as a stiff, rigid position or a loose, floppy position. Health professionals also look for muscles that don't relax and stiffened joints.
• Evaluate the baby's ability to move the arms, legs, and body.
• Determine if the baby has any shakiness (tremors) of the arms and legs.
• Watch to see if the baby uses only one hand to reach for things.
• Test the baby's reflexes (body movements that are not under a person's control) to evaluate the nervous system. Temporary (primitive) reflexes, such as throwing up the arms when startled, continue longer in children with cerebral palsy, often lasting into their adult years.