How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is a permanent condition that requires medical care. Children with CP are usually seen by a pediatrician also a physical therapy specialist. Their doctors will collect the medical history, take thorough physical examinations and conduct tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.

A cerebral palsy attorney can assist families to obtain an equitable amount of compensation for the lifelong needs of their child. Contact us now to schedule a no-cost consultation.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance and control. It results from damaged or abnormalities in the areas of the brain that regulate the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before, during or shortly after birth.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of hartford cerebral palsy law firm palsy by looking at the child's symptoms as well as medical history and physical exam, monitoring the growth and milestones of the child, and looking over the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Tests of urine, blood and skin can also be ordered.

Babies born with CP often show delays in the development of milestones and have stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes that aren't present in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which could suggest oxygen deprivation. It is difficult to identify the condition in infants who are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made at the age of two. The earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better the treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to seek out support groups and other organizations for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy are evident in the early years of childhood and result from damage to the brain part that controls movement and posture. The damage is permanent and can affect muscle coordination and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis experience uncontrolled, jerky movements of the hands, feet and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring or struggle to keep their balance and walk on tiptoe.

Ataxic CP is the least well-known type, which results in unorganized and awkward movement. Hypotonic CP is characterised by a lack of muscle tone and a rag-doll like movement of the legs and arms.

Doctors often diagnose a child with CP within the first two years of their lives, unless it is mild and in that case, they may make a diagnosis at age four or five. To lower the risk of developing CP, women should get vaccinations prior to conception against diseases that may cause brain damage in the fetus, including rubella and German measles. Prenatal care is essential for all pregnant mothers to prevent complications such as premature birth and insufficient weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy is caused by any issue that can hinder brain development, from maternal infections due to pregnancy, to complications arising during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy occurs more frequently in babies born before 32 weeks of age, or with babies who are overweight at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles), herpes, vimeo.com cytomegalovirus and the mother's fever during pregnancy can damage the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for every patient with CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist or physical and rehabilitation physician or neurologist will oversee medical care and create treatment plans that take care of specific symptoms and needs.

Treatments to ease the tightness of muscles (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) might be used to improve the function and ease discomfort or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and tightly contracted or to correct spinal issues such as an unnaturally curve in the back, which is common in cases of CP.

Speech therapists aid children in learning to communicate or speak, and they can teach parents how to enhance their child's communication skills. The therapeutic approach to recreation allows children to participate in enjoyable activities that foster social interaction, self-esteem and motor skill development.

Support

The right support can make all the difference. Parents and children suffering from cerebral palsy are able to find a group of families who can share their experiences via meetings in their local area or through an online groups. Many groups also have fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for the condition.

Teachers can aid children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan for students who may miss classes due to doctor's appointments or taking medication. They can also create accommodations in the classroom, such as allowing students to travel between classes, take tests or doctor visits.

Adults suffering from CP might seek advice from an occupational therapist regarding autonomy, such as housing, finding a job, and claiming benefits. They can also consult their doctor to determine whether their medications are effective or if something else could cause them to feel worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of specialists in the local area with this condition. It's available for people living in Michigan, and it allows users to search using their insurance company.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy attorney will assist you in negotiating an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires gathering additional evidence that shows that the medical professionals and medical facilities responsible for your child's birth injury committed malpractice, causing brain damage and cerebral palsy.

A legal claim seeks monetary compensation for the losses your family has experienced and expected future expenses. It's also about making changes and further policies to prevent such injuries from occurring to children of other children in the future.

Parents worry that filing a medical malpractice suit makes them look greedy or make it appear that they don't respect their child for who they are. But the reality is that the cost of caring for a person who suffers from CP can be in the thousands.

It's important to consult with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you file your case, the better. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand the laws applicable to your area, and what you should do next.