Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that affect movement, posture and coordination due to injury or abnormal development of the developing brain. Early intervention can help children improve their abilities and achieve greater independence.
In this Q&A, Nyaradzo Chitungo speaks to Precious Madzimbe, a Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapist about the importance of early intervention and how parents can support children with cerebral palsy.
NC: Could you please introduce yourself and tell us about the work you do?
PM:My name is Mr Precious Madzimbe, and I am a Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapist based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. I work with babies and children who have conditions affecting movement and development, including cerebral palsy, developmental delays, clubfoot, and other neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. I also lecture physiotherapy students, conduct research, and advocate for evidence-based rehabilitation services that improve the quality of life of children with disabilities and their families.
NC: What role does a paediatric physiotherapist play in helping a child with cerebral palsy?
PM: A paediatric physiotherapist helps children with cerebral palsy achieve their highest possible level of independence and function. We assess the child’s movement, muscle strength, balance, posture, and developmental milestones, then design individualised treatment programmes to improve mobility and prevent complications. Therapy focuses on helping children develop skills such as rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking, and participating in everyday activities, while also educating parents on how to continue therapy at home.
NC: What is early intervention for children with cerebral palsy?
PM: Early intervention refers to rehabilitation and developmental support provided as soon as a child is identified as being at risk of or diagnosed with cerebral palsy. It usually begins during infancy, when the brain is still rapidly developing. Early intervention includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy where needed, family education, and regular monitoring of the child’s progress.
NC: At what age or stage should a child first see a physiotherapist?
PM: A child should be referred to a physiotherapist as soon as there are concerns about their movement or development. There is no need to wait until the child is older or until a definite diagnosis is made. Babies identified as being at high risk, such as those born prematurely, those with birth complications, or those who have experienced brain injury, should be assessed as early as possible, often within the first few months of life.
NC: Why is it important for a child with cerebral palsy to start receiving intervention at an early stage?
PM: Early intervention takes advantage of the remarkable ability of a young child’s brain to adapt and learn, a process known as neuroplasticity. Starting therapy early helps children develop better movement patterns, reduces the risk of complications such as joint stiffness and muscle contractures, promotes independence, and equips parents with the knowledge and skills needed to support their child’s development every day.
NC: What are some of the early signs that parents should look out for, indicating that their child needs to be assessed as soon as possible?
PM: Parents should seek assessment if they notice that their baby is not reaching developmental milestones, such as poor head control, difficulty rolling, sitting or crawling, unusual stiffness or floppiness, persistent fisting of the hands after four months, favouring one side of the body, feeding difficulties, or delayed movement compared with other children of the same age. Early assessment does not necessarily mean the child has cerebral palsy, but it allows any problems to be identified and managed promptly.
NC: How does early intervention benefit a child’s ability to sit, crawl, walk and perform other daily activities?
PM: Early intervention helps children build the strength, balance, coordination, and motor control needed to achieve developmental milestones. It improves the child’s ability to move efficiently, participate in play, interact with others, and become as independent as possible in daily activities such as dressing, feeding, and mobility. Although every child progresses differently, starting therapy early gives the child the best opportunity to reach their full potential.
NC: What role do parents or caregivers play in supporting a child’s development during therapy?
PM: Parents and caregivers are the most important members of the rehabilitation team because they spend the most time with the child. The greatest improvements occur when therapy continues beyond the clinic and becomes part of everyday family routines. Physiotherapists teach parents practical ways to position, carry, play with, and exercise their child safely at home. Consistency, encouragement, and creating opportunities for movement during daily activities are key to success.
NC: Are there any exercises or activities that parents can safely do at home to support the child’s progress?
PM: Yes. Home programmes are an essential part of rehabilitation. Depending on the child’s needs, parents may be taught activities that encourage tummy time, reaching for toys, rolling, supported sitting, crawling, standing, balance, and walking. Play-based activities are often the most effective because children learn best while playing. However, exercises should always be guided by a qualified physiotherapist to ensure they are appropriate and safe for the child’s specific condition.
NC: Which other health professionals work together with a physiotherapist to support a child with cerebral palsy?
PM: Caring for a child with cerebral palsy requires a multidisciplinary team. This may include paediatricians, neurologists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, orthopaedic surgeons, rehabilitation nurses, psychologists, dietitians, social workers, orthotists, educators, and community rehabilitation workers. Working together ensures that the child’s physical, communication, nutritional, educational, and emotional needs are addressed comprehensively.
NC: Are there any myths or misconceptions about cerebral palsy that you would like to correct?
PM: Yes. One common misconception is that cerebral palsy is caused by witchcraft or a curse. This is not true. Cerebral palsy is a medical condition resulting from injury or abnormal development of the developing brain, usually before, during, or shortly after birth.
Another myth is that children with cerebral palsy cannot learn or become independent. In reality, many children with cerebral palsy attend school, participate in sports, pursue careers, and lead fulfilling lives when given appropriate support.
It is also important to understand that cerebral palsy is not contagious and is not a progressive disease. Although the brain injury itself does not worsen over time, the child may develop complications if they do not receive appropriate rehabilitation and medical care.
NC: Any words of encouragement would you like to share with parents whose child has recently been diagnosed with cerebral palsy?
PM: Receiving a diagnosis of cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, but it is important for parents to know that a diagnosis is not the end of their child’s future. Every child has unique strengths and potential. Seek professional help early, attend therapy consistently, ask questions, and become an active partner in your child’s rehabilitation. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. With early intervention, family support, and appropriate rehabilitation, many children with cerebral palsy can make remarkable progress and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Njukang Princeley 
Princely Kesah