How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children suffering from CP usually visit a pediatrician along with a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. The doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination, take a detailed medical history and perform tests such as MRI or CT scans.

A reputable lawyer for cerebral palsy can help families seek fair compensation for their child's lifelong needs. Contact us now to schedule an appointment free of charge.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Psy is a condition that impairs the ability to move, balance and coordinate. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to the brain's areas which regulate the movement of muscles. It typically occurs prior to or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy on a child's symptom and medical history, physical examination as well as milestones, growth and results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Tests of blood, urine and skin may 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 also might have low Apgar scores, which could suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in infants that are still developing. The final diagnosis is typically made by age two. The earlier a child's condition is recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to find support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy usually manifest in the beginning of childhood. They result from damage to the brain region that regulates posture and movement. This damage cannot be reversed and can affect muscles and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have chaotic, jerky movements with their hands, feet and arms. They may also have a hard time reaching, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring, have trouble keeping their balance and walk on the tip of their toes.

The most common type of CP is ataxic, which results in slow and unorganized movements. Hypotonic CP is defined by muscle tone that is low and a ragdoll-like motion of the legs and arms.

Doctors typically detect CP in the beginning of the child's life, unless mild. In that case, they might make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women are advised to be vaccinated against illnesses like rubella and German Measles before pregnancy to reduce their risk of developing CP. It is also crucial for mothers to receive regular prenatal check-ups during the pregnancy, which can aid in preventing complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Cerebral Palsy can be caused by any cause that hinders brain development, from infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Babies born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are more at risk likelihood of developing cerebral palsy. Maternal fever during pregnancy rubella (German measles) as well as cytomegalovirus and herpes infections may trigger inflammation that harms the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for each person with CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation neurologists or doctors should oversee the medical care and develop a treatment plan to address specific symptoms and needs.

Treatments to ease muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) could be used to improve functionality and reduce pain or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted, or to correct spinal problems like an unusually bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.

Speech therapists help children learn to communicate or cerebral palsy speak and teach parents how to enhance their child's communication. Recreational therapy helps children participate in activities that stimulate social interaction, self-esteem and motor development.

Support

Getting the right support can make all the difference. Parents of children with cerebral palsy law firms palsy as well as their children can connect with a group of people who have similar experiences at a local gathering or on the internet. Many groups also have fundraisers that raise awareness and funds to help treat the condition.

Teachers can support children who have cerebral palsy in school. They can make plans for students who are unable to attend class due to doctor's visits or taking medication. They can also provide accommodations in the classroom for things like providing extra time to travel between classes or for taking exams.

Adults who suffer from CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, which includes the need for housing, obtaining jobs and benefits. They can also talk with their doctor to find out if their medications are effective and if there's something that could be making 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 those living in Michigan and allows them to search for doctors by insurance company.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can help you negotiate an acceptable settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure involves gathering additional evidence to prove that the medical providers and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed malpractice, causing brain injuries and that led to cerebral palsy.

A legal claim seeks monetary compensation for the harms your family has endured and the anticipated costs for the future. It's about making adjustments and adopting additional policies to prevent these types of injuries from happening in the future.

Some parents worry that filing a medical malpractice suit can make them appear greedy or as if they don't like their child for what they are. But the reality is that the lifetime cost of caring for a person with CP can be in the thousands.

Consult a medical malpractice lawyer as soon as you are able to. The earlier you file your case, the better. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your state and tell you what you need to do next.