Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of physical disability in childhood. It is a non-progressive disorder of postural and motor dysfunction. This complex, lifelong condition impacts on both children and their families. Care of these children is therefore an important part of general practice. Not only must the GP correctly identify CP and coordinate multidisciplinary care, he or she is the key to ensuring a family-centred service is delivered and provide the important continuity in care during transition to adult services. This article aims to provide an overview of the knowledge base needed by the GP when faced with a child with CP and to promote a biopsychosocial approach to service delivery.
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