How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children with CP are often seen by a pediatrician, also a physical therapy specialist. Their doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination, take a detailed medical history and perform tests like MRI or CT scans.
A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue fair compensation for their child's lifelong needs. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance and control. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's areas which regulate muscle movement. It usually manifests before, during, or shortly after birth.
Doctors are able to diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptom and medical history, physical exam as well as milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, like pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Skin, urine and blood tests are also possible to order.
Babies with CP may show delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, as well as hyperactive reactions that aren't found in normal babies. cerebral palsy law firm athens may also have low Apgar scores, which may suggest oxygen deprivation. The condition is difficult to diagnose in babies who are still developing, and a definitive diagnosis is typically made around the age of two. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to look for support groups, organizations, and counseling services for their children.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cerebral palsy usually appear 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 the body's movements and muscle coordination.
Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have chaotic, jerky movements with their feet, hands and arms. They may also have a hard time reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might drool and have trouble keeping their balance, and walk on tiptoe.
Ataxic CP is the least frequent kind, resulting in unorganized and awkward movement. The people with hypotonic CP have low muscle tone, and their legs and arms are able to move easily and mimic the movements of the Rag doll.
Doctors typically diagnose a child with CP in the first two years of their lives, unless it is mild or in which case they might make a diagnosis when the child is four or five years old. To lower the risk of developing CP, women should get immunized prior to pregnancy against illnesses that can cause brain damage in a fetus, including rubella and German measles. It is also crucial that mothers receive regular prenatal check-ups during the pregnancy. This can help prevent complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
Cerebral palsy can result by any cause that affects brain development, including infections in the mother during pregnancy as well as complications during labor and birth, or head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more common in babies born before 32 weeks of age, or with the baby's weight being low at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles), herpes, cytomegalovirus and maternal fever during pregnancy can affect the nervous system of the baby.
The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist will oversee medical care and create treatment plans that address specific symptoms and needs.
Treatments to ease the tightness of muscles (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) could be used to improve the function and reduce pain or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted, or to correct spinal issues, such as an abnormally bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists can help children learn to communicate and teach parents how to improve their child's abilities to communicate. Therapy for recreation helps children take part in fun activities that promote social interaction, self-esteem and motor development.
Support
Getting the right support can make all the difference. Parents of children with cerebral palsy as well as their children can connect with a group of people who share similar experiences at a local gathering or on the internet. Many groups also host fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for the condition.
Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can make plans for students who may miss classes because of doctor's visits or taking medication. They can also arrange for accommodations in the classroom for things like giving students extra time to travel between classes or for taking examinations.
Adults with CP might seek out advice from an occupational therapist on independence, including housing or finding work and receiving benefits. They can also consult their doctor about whether their medications are effective and if there's something that could be causing the symptoms worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains an inventory of local specialists with this condition. The database is available to people in Michigan and allows them to search by 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 involves gathering more evidence to prove that the medical facilities and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of malpractice, causing brain injuries and that led to cerebral palsy.
Legal claims seek monetary compensation for the losses your family has experienced and anticipated future expenses. It's about making adjustments and taking additional measures to prevent such injuries from occurring in the future.
Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit will make them appear smug or that they don't appreciate their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.
It is crucial to speak an attorney for medical malpractice as soon as possible. Each state has a statute of limitations, and the sooner you begin your case, the better. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply to your specific area, as well as what you need to do next.