How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral psy is a condition that lasts all of life and Cerebral palsy requires medical attention. Children with CP typically visit a pediatrician along with a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. The doctor will take a medical history, do a thorough physical exam and perform tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer will assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifelong requirements. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition that affects posture, movement, balance and coordination. It results from damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain that regulate muscle movement. It usually occurs before or shortly after birth.

Doctors can determine if a child is suffering of cerebral palsy by looking at the child's symptoms, medical history and physical examination, as well as monitoring growth and milestones, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer the infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as an orthopedist for children, neurologists and physiatrists. Blood tests, urine tests and skin could also be requested.

Babies born with CP frequently have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that are not present in normal babies. Low Apgar scores may also be a sign of oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to recognize in babies who are still developing, and a diagnosis is generally made by 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 law firm palsy appear in the beginning of childhood and are caused by damage to the brain region that regulates posture and movement. This damage is permanent and can affect muscle coordination and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements in the hands, feet and arms. They might also have trouble reaching, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might snore or have trouble holding their balance.

Ataxic CP is the least frequent type, which results in unorganized and clumsy movements. Hypotonic patients CP have a low level of muscle tone and their legs and arms move easily and are similar to those of the rug doll.

Doctors typically detect CP in the first two years of a child's life, unless it is mild. In this scenario, they may make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women are advised to be vaccinated against illnesses such as rubella and German Measles prior the time they become pregnant to reduce their risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is essential for all mothers during pregnancy to avoid complications such as premature birth and an infant who is overweight.

Treatment

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

Each person's CP treatment plan will differ for each. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist will oversee the medical treatment and develop a treatment plan to address specific symptoms and requirements.

Treatments to ease muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) could be used to improve the function and ease pain or other signs. In the case of severe cases of CP, surgery can extend stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct issues like an unnaturally curving spine.

Speech therapists can help children to develop communication skills and also teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Recreational therapy involves children in fun activities to promote social interaction, self-esteem and motor skill development.

Support

The right support can make all the difference. Parents and children who suffer from cerebral palsy can join a community of families who can share their experiences via a local gathering or online groups. Many groups also hold fundraisers to raise awareness and funds to help treat the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan for students who are unable to attend class due to medical appointments or taking medication. They can also offer accommodations in the classroom to accommodate things like providing extra time between classes or for taking tests.

Adults who suffer from CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist on their independence, including housing, getting a job and benefits. They can also consult their doctor about whether 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. The database is accessible to people in Michigan and allows them to search by insurance provider.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can help you obtain an appropriate settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove the medical facilities and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed negligence, causing brain injuries and which led to cerebral palsy.

Legal claims seek monetary compensation for the damages your family has endured and the anticipated costs for the future. It's also about creating changes and other policies to prevent such injuries from happening to other children in the future.

Parents are concerned that suing for medical malpractice could make them look greedy, or as if they don't accept the child they have. But the reality is that the cost of caring for a person with CP can be in the thousands.

Contact a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as you are able to. Each state has a statute of limitations and the sooner you begin your case, the more favorable. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your particular area and the steps you must do next.