15 Interesting Facts About Cerebral Palsy Case You've Never Heard Of

How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is an illness that will last a lifetime and requires medical attention. Children with CP are often examined by a pediatrician, as along with a physical medicine specialist. Their doctors will collect the medical history, take thorough physical examinations and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer can assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifetime requirements. Contact us today to set up a no-cost consultation.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a condition which affects the capacity to move, balance and control. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to brain regions which regulate muscle movement. It usually occurs before or during or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy on a child's symptoms and medical history, physical exam milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer the toddler, infant or child to specialists, such as neurologists, orthopedists for children and physiatrists. Blood, urine and skin tests can also be ordered.

Babies born with CP frequently have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes, which are not seen in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which could indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition is difficult to recognize in babies who are still developing, and a definitive diagnosis is generally made by the age of 2. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options can be. Many families find it beneficial to find support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy typically manifest in early childhood, and are caused by damage to the brain part that controls the movement and posture. This damage cannot be reversed and affects muscles and body movements.

Children who suffer from dyskinetic cerebral palsy exhibit uncontrolled, jerky movements in the feet, hands, and arms. They may also have difficulty reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be drooling or have difficulty keeping their balance.

The least common kind of CP is ataxic, which can cause poor coordination and clumsy movement. Hypotonic CP is defined by muscle tone that is low and a rag-doll-like movement of the legs and arms.

Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP within the first two years of their life, unless it is mild, in which case they might make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women must be vaccinated against diseases such as rubella and German Measles before pregnancy to reduce the risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is important for all pregnant mothers to avoid complications like premature birth and low weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy can be caused by anything that affects brain development, ranging from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Babies born before 32 weeks or with low birth weight are at increased likelihood of developing cerebral palsy. Maternal febrile illness during pregnancy rubella (German measles) and cytomegalovirus infections can cause inflammation that damages the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for each person suffering from CP differs. A pediatric specialist or physical and rehabilitation physician or neurologist should supervise medical care and develop treatment plans that specifically address the symptoms and requirements.

To improve the function or ease pain, medications to reduce the tightness of muscles can be prescribed. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and tightly contracted, or to correct spinal problems like an abnormally bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.

Speech therapists can help children to learn to communicate and help parents improve their child's abilities to communicate. Therapy for recreation involves children in fun activities to promote social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development.

Support

Getting the right support can make all the difference. Parents of children with cerebral palsy as well as their children can connect with an entire group of people who share similar experiences at local meetings or via the internet. Many groups have events to raise funds and raise awareness for the condition.

Teachers can support children who have cerebral palsy during school. They can plan for students who cannot attend class because of doctor's visits or taking medicine. They can also provide arrangements in the classroom, like allowing students to travel between classes and take exams or for doctor visits.

Adults who suffer from CP can get advice from an occupational therapist about independence, which includes housing, finding work and benefits. They can also talk to their doctor to determine if their medications are working and if there's anything which could be making the symptoms worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local physicians who specialize in this condition. It is accessible to those living in Michigan and allows people to search by their insurance company.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can help you obtain an equitable settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires more evidence that the medical professionals and medical facilities responsible for the birth injury of your child committed malpractice, causing brain damage and cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a way to get financial compensation for losses suffered by your family as well as future expenses that are expected. It's about making adjustments and taking additional measures to prevent the possibility of such accidents occurring in the future.

Some parents worry that bringing a lawsuit for medical malpractice will make them look greedy, or appear to accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient can run into the millions.

It is crucial to speak with a lawyer for medical malpractice whenever you can. The earlier you file your case, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your area and what you need to do next.