How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a long-lasting condition that requires medical care. Children suffering from CP are typically seen by a pediatrician, in addition to a physical specialist. Their doctors will take a medical history, do thorough physical examinations and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.

A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer can help families seek fair compensation for their child's entire life needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to review your case for free.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects the capacity to move, balance and control. It is caused by the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain that regulate muscles, and it typically occurs prior to or shortly after birth.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of cerebral palsy after analyzing the child's symptoms along with medical history and physical examination, observing growth and milestones, as well as reviewing the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer the infant, toddler or child to specialists such as neurologists, orthopedists for children and physiatrists. Blood, urine and skin tests are also possible to order.

Babies born with CP often show delays in developmental milestones. They also have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that aren't present in normal infants. Low Apgar scores may also indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition may be difficult to diagnose in babies who are still developing, and a definitive diagnosis is typically made around 2 years of age. The the earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better treatment will be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, organizations, and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy usually manifest in the first years of childhood, and are caused by damage done to the brain part that controls posture and movement. This damage is permanent and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have jerky, uncontrolled movements of the hands, feet and arms. They may also have difficulty reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may drool or have trouble staying in balance.

The least commonly-used type of CP is ataxic, which causes 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 typically diagnose children with CP in the first two years of life, unless it is not severe and in that case, they might make a diagnosis at the age of four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases like rubella and German Measles prior to pregnancy to lower the risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is important for all mothers during pregnancy to avoid complications like premature birth and the birth weight being too low.

Treatment

Cerebral paralysis can be caused by anything that interferes with brain development, from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Baby born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are at increased chances of developing cerebral paralysis. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles), herpes, cytomegalovirus and the mother's fever during pregnancy can harm the nervous system in development.

The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP differs. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist should oversee the medical care and formulate an appropriate treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and needs.

Medications to reduce muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) may be used to improve functionality and ease pain or other symptoms. In extreme cases of CP surgery can lengthen stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct issues such as an abnormally curved spine.

Speech therapists are able to assist children to learn to communicate and teach parents how to improve their child's communication abilities. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in activities that stimulate social interaction, self-esteem and motor development.

Support

A good support system can make all the difference. Parents and children with cerebral palsy are able to find a group of families who can relate to their experiences via a local meeting or online groups. Many groups also have fundraisers to raise awareness and funds to help treat the condition.

Teachers can aid children with Sierra Vista Cerebral Palsy Attorney palsy at school. They can plan ahead for times when students will miss class because of medical appointments or medication. They can also provide accommodation in the classroom for things like allowing additional time between classes or to take exams.

Adults suffering from CP might seek advice from an occupational therapist regarding the issues of independence, like housing or finding work and receiving benefits. They can also consult their doctor to find out if their medications are working and if they have any other issues that could be causing the symptoms worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of local experts in this field. It is available to people who live in Michigan and allows users to search for their insurance company.

Legal Questions

Your homer glen cerebral palsy law firm palsy lawyer will assist you in negotiating an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are accountable for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove the medical professionals and facilities involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of negligence, causing brain injuries and which led to cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a way to obtain financial compensation for losses incurred by your family as well as future expenses that are anticipated. It's also about bringing about changes and additional policies to prevent these injuries from occurring to children of other children in the future.

Some parents are afraid that suing for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy, or as if they don't accept the child they have. However, the truth is that the cost of caring for a person suffering from CP can be in the millions.

It's important to consult with a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as possible. The sooner you file your case the better. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply in your specific area, as well as what you should do next.