Cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological condition which hinders body movement and muscle coordination, typically proves to be a nonfatal condition. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), 65-90 percent of children with cerebral palsy reach adulthood.

CP Secondary Conditions
Poor balance, tight muscles, and awkward manner of walking are all common symptoms of cerebral palsy. Adults with CP are more susceptible than the rest of the population to secondary health conditions, such as depression, arthritis, and pain.

Mental health conditions, like depression, can be caused by cerebral palsy. Adults with cerebral palsy have to learn how to cope with their condition. Vulnerability to mental health conditions vary depending on how the person looks at life. Adults with cerebral palsy who have a “half full” attitude about life, tend to be less susceptible to depression. Still, NINDS estimates adults with CP are three to four times more likely to become depressed than those without the condition. 

Additionally, osteoarthritis and degenerative arthritis are associated with cerebral palsy. Adults with cerebral palsy have an increased risk of osteoarthritis and degenerative arthritis, due to body movement abnormalities caused by CP. These abnormalities, while also present in childhood, don’t tend to cause arthritis-related problems until adulthood.  
      
CP Pain
Pain experienced by adults with CP can either be short term or long term. While pain can be experienced anywhere in the body, NINDS lists hips, knees, ankles, upper back, and lower back as the most common areas for experiencing pain. Effectively managing pain can help prevent short-term pain from turning into long-term pain.  

Faster aging organs and tiring quickly are additional health issues commonly found in men and women with cerebral palsy. Adults with CP should visit their doctors regularly, as  your physician can closely monitor your health for any secondary conditions.