How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a long-lasting condition that requires medical care. Children with CP frequently visit a pediatrician, as well as a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. Their doctors will collect an medical history, conduct an extensive physical exam, and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer can help families seek an equitable amount of settlement for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us now to schedule an appointment to review your case for free.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition that affects posture, movement, balance and coordination. It is caused by damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain that regulate muscle movement, and it typically manifests before or shortly after birth.

Doctors can determine if a child is suffering of cerebral palsy after analyzing the child's symptoms as well as medical history and physical examination, and observing milestones and growth, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists neurologists, and physiatrists. Testing of urine, blood and skin could also be requested.

Babies born with CP typically have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that are not present in normal infants. They may also have low Apgar scores, which can indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition can be difficult to identify in infants who are still developing and a final diagnosis is usually made at 2 years of age. The earlier a child's condition can be diagnosed, the better the treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to seek out support groups, organizations and counseling services for their children.

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of cerebral palsy appear in early childhood and result from damage to the brain region that controls movement and posture. The damage is permanent and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements in the feet, hands, and arms. They may also have trouble reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may snore or struggle to keep their balance and walk on tiptoe.

The least commonly-used type of CP is ataxic, which results in poor coordination and clumsy movement. Hypotonic CP is defined by muscle tone that is low and a ragdoll-like motion of the legs and arms.

Doctors typically detect CP within the beginning of the child's life, unless mild. In that case, they may be able to diagnose it at four or five. To lower the risk of developing CP women should be vaccinated before pregnancy against diseases that could cause fetal brain damage, such as rubella and German measles. Prenatal care is essential for all mothers during pregnancy to prevent complications such as premature birth and an infant who is overweight.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy may result by any cause that affects the development of the brain, such as maternal infections during pregnancy as well as complications during labor and birth or head injuries. Baby born before 32 weeks or with low birth weight are at increased risk of cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German Measles), herpes, cytomegalovirus and the maternal fever during pregnancy could damage 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 oversee medical care and create treatment plans that specifically address the symptoms and requirements.

The use of medications to lessen muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) may be used to improve the function and reduce pain or other symptoms. In severe cases of CP, surgery can lengthen stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct a problem such as an unusually curved spine.

Speech therapists assist children in learning to speak or communicate and also instruct parents how to help their child's communication. Recreational therapy helps children participate in fun activities that promote social interaction, self-esteem, and motor skill development.

Support

The right support can make a huge difference. Parents and children with cerebral palsy can find a community of families who can relate to their experiences through a local gathering or online group. Many groups host fundraisers to raise funds and awareness for the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can make plans for students who cannot attend class due to doctor's visits or taking medication. They can also arrange for accommodations in the classroom like allowing students to travel between classes and complete exams or for doctor visits.

Adults with CP might seek advice from an occupational therapist about the issues of independence, like housing, finding a job, 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 making the symptoms worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has an inventory of local doctors who specialize in this condition. It is available to residents in Michigan and allows users to search using their insurance provider.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy lawyer will assist you receive a fair settlement from medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure is about gathering more evidence to prove the physicians and medical facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence, causing brain injuries and resulted in cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a method to obtain financial compensation for the loss suffered by your family members as well as the future costs that are anticipated. It's about making changes and implementing additional policies to prevent such injuries from occurring in the future.

Some parents are afraid that suing for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy or look like they don't accept the child they have. But the truth is that the cost of caring for a person suffering from CP could be in the thousands.

Consult a medical malpractice lawyer as soon as you are able to. The sooner you file your claim, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply in your particular area, and tell you what you should do following.