A short, plain-English dictionary of the terms you will hear most often from doctors, therapists and schools.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| AAC | Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Tools/strategies that support communication, from symbols to high-tech devices. |
| AFO | Ankle Foot Orthosis. A brace/splint often used to support foot and ankle position. |
| Ataxia | Movement/balance coordination difficulty often causing unsteady or shaky movement. |
| Contracture | Shortening/tightening of muscles or tendons that limits joint movement. |
| Diplegia | CP pattern where legs are affected more than arms. |
| Dyskinetic | Involuntary/fluctuating movements and muscle tone. |
| Education, Health and Care Plan. Legal plan for children/young people up to 25 needing more support than Support. | |
| GMFCS | Gross Motor Function Classification System. Describes functional mobility levels in CP. |
| Hemiplegia | One side of body affected more than the other. |
| Hip surveillance | Monitoring hip development/position in children at risk of hip displacement. |
| Orthotics | Service/equipment such as splints, braces and specialist footwear. |
| Postural care | Support to maintain safe, comfortable body position across the day and night. |
| Quadriplegia | All four limbs affected; usually more complex physical support needs. |
| Speech and Language Therapy, including communication and eating/drinking/swallowing support. | |
| Local impartial Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Service. | |
| Spasticity | Increased muscle tone/tightness. |
| Tone | The level of tension in muscles; can be high, low or fluctuating. |
Sources: , NICE (NG62 & NG119), Scope, Contact, GOV.UK, , Citizens Advice. Always check linked organisations for the latest information.