There are different classifications for the degree of severity of disability for children with a diplegic type of cerebral palsy: mild, moderate, and severe. A child with mild diplegia can walk without the use of aids, has a normal tolerance for walking, and can keep up with nondisabled children of a similar age in activities where walking is involved. A child with moderate diplegia is able to walk for most daily activities but at times may choose to use an aid, such as crutches or a walker. Where lengthy walking is involved, for example at a zoo, amusement park, or shopping mall, the child with moderate involvement would need the use of a wheelchair. A child with severe diplegia would require an aid for even walking small distances and will only walk on level ground in uncrowded areas. A wheelchair is used for getting around in public.
Diplegia, like other types of cerebral palsy, is hard to detect early on. Warning signs may include stiff legs. There may be floppiness of the arms and legs, but they turn stiff later. There are no tests or scans that can detect cerebral palsy. The diagnosis is based on motor movement.
