How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is a permanent condition that requires medical care. Children with CP frequently visit a pediatrician and a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. Their doctors will take a medical history, do a thorough physical exam and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer will assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us now to schedule a no-cost consultation.

Diagnosis

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

Doctors can make a diagnosis of cerebral palsy by evaluating a child's symptoms along with medical history and physical examination, and observing the growth and milestones of the child, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists, like pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Testing of urine, blood and skin could also be ordered.

Babies with CP may exhibit delayed developmental milestones as well as stiff muscles and hyperactive reactions that aren't observed in normal infants. They may also have low Apgar scores, which can indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in infants that are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made by age two. The the earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better the treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to find support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy are usually noticed in the beginning of childhood. They result from damage to the brain area that controls posture and movement. This damage is not reversible and can affect muscles and body movements.

Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have unpredictable, jerky movements of their hands, feet, and arms. They may also have a hard time reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may drool or have difficulty holding their balance.

The most commonly used kind of CP is ataxic, which results in disorganized and clumsy movements. People with hypotonic CP have a low level of muscle tone and their legs and arms are able to move easily and mimic the movements of an rug doll.

Doctors often diagnose a child with CP within the first two years of their lives, unless it is not severe, 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 prior the time they become pregnant to reduce the risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is essential for all pregnant mothers to avoid complications such as premature birth and low weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy can be caused by anything that affects the development of the brain, from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more common in babies born before 32 weeks, or with babies who are overweight at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German Measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and the maternal fever during pregnancy could damage the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist must oversee medical care and develop treatment plans that focus on specific symptoms and needs.

To improve functionality or alleviate pain, medications to reduce muscle tightness are available. In the case of severe cases of CP surgery can lengthen tight, stiff muscles or correct a problem such as an unusually curved spine.

Speech therapists aid children in learning to communicate and speak and can also teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation helps children take part in enjoyable activities that foster social interaction, self-esteem, and motor development.

Support

The appropriate support can make a big difference. Parents of children with cerebral palsy as well as their children can join a group of people with similar experiences at a local meet or via the internet. Many groups also have fundraisers that raise awareness and funds for the disorder.

Educational professionals can assist children suffering from cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can plan ahead for when students will be absent because of medical appointments or taking medicine. They can also provide accommodations in the classroom for things like allowing extra time between classes or for taking tests.

Adults with CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist on independence, such as the need for housing, obtaining jobs and benefits. They can also consult their doctor about whether their medicines are effective and if there's something 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 people who live in Michigan and permits users to search using their insurance company.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you get a fair settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure is about gathering additional evidence to prove that the medical professionals and facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed negligence that caused brain injuries and which led to cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a means to get financial compensation for the loss suffered by your family members as well as future expenses that are anticipated. It's also about making changes and implementing additional procedures to stop such injuries from happening to other children in the future.

Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice suit can make them appear greedy or make it appear that they don't respect their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient could be in the millions.

Get a medical malpractice lawyer on your side as soon as you can. The earlier you file your case the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can explain the laws applicable to your region, and also what you need to do next.