Prevalence and correlates of late presentation for physiotherapy intervention among mothers of children with cerebral palsy

Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common childhood disability globally. Early diagnosis, before 5–6 months, allows for timely intervention. Parental involvement, especially mothers’, is crucial for early physiotherapy to prevent complications. This study assessed the prevalence and correlates of late presentation for physiotherapy intervention among mothers of children with CP. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2024 among mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP) attending physiotherapy outpatient clinics at three hospitals in Southwest Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, maternal knowledge, attitudes, and socio-economic support. A total population sampling technique was used, yielding 158 respondents. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Chi-square and t -tests assessed associations between variables and the timing of physiotherapy presentation. Logistic regression identified predictors of late presentation, defined as initiation of physiotherapy after 6 months of age. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The prevalence of late presentation for physiotherapy intervention among mothers of children with cerebral palsy was 80.4%. Multivariate analyses revealed that mothers aged 40 and above (aOR: 5.12, 95% CI: 0.43–60.33, p = 0.042), married in a polygamous family (aOR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.05–1.16, p = 0.026), having 4–5 children (aOR: 11.56, 95% CI: 1.20–111.17, p = 0.034), poor knowledge (aOR: 2.78, 95% CI: 0.78–9.94, p = 0.032), and poor socio-economic support (aOR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.18–12.01, p = 0.025) were associated with late presentation for physiotherapy intervention among mothers of children with cerebral palsy. Conclusions There is a significant gap in timely access to physiotherapy for children with cerebral palsy. There should be concerted efforts to strengthen caregiver awareness and improve the responsiveness of the health system in order to bridge these delays and optimize rehabilitation outcomes.