Neuro & Physical
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition characterised by an excess accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, leading to increased pressure. This happens when fluid that normally cushions and protects the brain cannot drain properly. Commonly known as 'water on the brain', it can lead to head enlargement in infants and, if untreated, developmental issues and other complications.
- Unusually rapid head growth or head enlargement in infants
- Signs of increased pressure such as irritability or vomiting
- Developmental delays if the condition goes untreated
- Other complications depending on severity and timing of treatment
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Physiotherapy to support motor development where hydrocephalus has affected movement or coordination
- Coordination with medical teams, since hydrocephalus is primarily a medical condition requiring monitoring and, often, surgical treatment
- Developmental support and family guidance as the child grows
- Head circumference growing faster than expected for age
- Delayed developmental milestones
- Changes in alertness, feeding or irritability that concern parents or a paediatrician
Not sure yet?
Check the signs in someone you love: Milestones: what I'm noticing in my child
Thinking about your child's movement and everyday skills, how often do you notice each of these? Milestones vary widely, so this is a prompt for conversation, not a verdict. Scored on your device only, nothing is stored, and it is not a diagnosis.
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
Physiotherapists support motor development and address any movement or coordination difficulties that arise alongside hydrocephalus, working within the child's overall medical care plan.
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The disciplines involved
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Paediatric Physiotherapy
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Movement-focused therapy for infants and children with developmental, postural or motor concerns.
Learn moreQuestions
Hydrocephalus: questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
It occurs when cerebrospinal fluid, which normally cushions and protects the brain, cannot drain properly, leading to fluid build-up and increased pressure.
It is primarily a medical condition and requires diagnosis and treatment from a doctor, often including monitoring or surgical management. Therapy support can help with any resulting developmental or movement needs.
Untreated hydrocephalus can lead to developmental issues and other complications, which is why early medical attention matters.
Where hydrocephalus has affected motor development, physiotherapy supports movement, coordination and developmental progress alongside the child's medical care.
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You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.
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