Which of the following statements about cerebral palsy is true?

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement and muscle coordination, primarily resulting from non-progressive brain injury or malformation during early development. The correct statement highlights that cerebral palsy can indeed be caused by various conditions, including brain injury at birth. This injury can occur due to several factors such as oxygen deprivation, infections, or complications during delivery that affect the developing brain and lead to the characteristic symptoms of cerebral palsy.

The understanding that cerebral palsy can arise from a range of factors rather than solely genetic influences expands the scope of its causality. Notably, while genetics may play a role in some cases, many instances arise from environmental factors such as trauma during the perinatal period.

Other statements do not accurately reflect the multifaceted nature of cerebral palsy. For instance, stating that it occurs only due to genetic factors oversimplifies the condition and ignores traumatic and environmental contributors. Claiming that it is caused by direct trauma to the spinal cord misrepresents the disorder, as cerebral palsy primarily stems from brain injuries rather than spinal cord injuries. Lastly, the assertion that it always leads to complete paralysis is false, as individuals with cerebral palsy can experience a wide range of mobility and functional capabilities, with many retaining