Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of conditions that affect movement, posture and muscle tone. It is caused by differences in early brain development and is lifelong, but the way it affects a person can change over time. Physiotherapy supports children and adults with CP to move as well as possible, stay strong and keep doing what they want to do.
Physiotherapy for Children With Cerebral Palsy
In childhood, physiotherapy often focuses on gross motor skills such as rolling, sitting, standing, walking, running and jumping. Sessions are usually built around play and everyday activities, with strong involvement from parents and carers so that practice carries over into daily life. Physiotherapists may also help with equipment advice, stretching and positioning, and monitoring changes as the child grows.
Physiotherapy for Teenagers and Adults
CP does not stop at 18. As people age, they may notice more fatigue, joint pain or changes in mobility. Adult physiotherapy can help with strength training, maintaining walking and transfers, managing pain and stiffness, and keeping fitness up. Many adults with CP find that a regular exercise program helps them stay independent for longer.
Setting Goals That Matter
Good CP physiotherapy starts with what matters to the person and their family. That might be walking independently at school, joining a sport, managing stairs at home or reducing pain at the end of the day. Goals are broken into steps, measured over time and adjusted as needs change.
Cerebral Palsy and the NDIS
Many people with CP are NDIS participants, and physiotherapy is a common support in their plans. It can be used to build capacity in areas such as mobility, strength and independence, subject to the plan’s goals, budget and management type. Progress reports from your physiotherapist can also help at plan reviews. Our guide to what you are entitled to under the NDIS explains the basics.
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Funding depends on your individual NDIS plan, goals and the supports the NDIA considers reasonable and necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a child with cerebral palsy have physiotherapy?
It varies with age, goals and funding. Some children attend weekly or fortnightly, while others have blocks of therapy with a home program in between. Your physiotherapist will recommend what suits your child.
Can adults with cerebral palsy benefit from physiotherapy?
Yes. Strength, fitness, pain management and mobility can all be supported in adulthood.
Can NDIS funding be used for CP physiotherapy?
It can be, where it supports goals in the participant’s plan and is considered reasonable and necessary.
Book NDIS Physiotherapy at Burwood Physio
Whether you are looking for support for your child or for yourself, our team can help you plan next steps. Call 02 8322 9022 or book online. We are open Monday to Friday 7am–7pm and Saturday 8am–6pm, at Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria Street East, Burwood, one train stop from Strathfield.
Related: NDIS Physiotherapy at Burwood Physio | NDIS Physiotherapy: What You Are Entitled To | What to Expect at an NDIS Physiotherapy Appointment
Reviewed by the Burwood Physio Clinical Team
BPhty (Hons) | AHPRA Registered Physiotherapists | Member, Australian Physiotherapy Association
Our clinical team has over 20 years of combined experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, and pain management. All content is reviewed for clinical accuracy and updated in line with current evidence-based practice guidelines. Meet our team →
