How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical care. Children suffering from CP typically visit a pediatrician, as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. The doctors will take the medical history, take an extensive physical exam, and conduct tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.

A Seward cerebral palsy lawsuit palsy attorney can help families obtain fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us today to arrange a free case review.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that affects posture, movement, coordination and balance. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to parts of the brain which control the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before, during, or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy based on the child's symptoms, medical history, physical examination milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer the toddler, infant or child to specialists like neurologists, pediatric orthopedists and physiatrists. Tests of blood, urine and skin might also be ordered.

Babies with CP may exhibit delayed developmental milestones, stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions that are not seen in normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which may indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in babies that are still developing. The final diagnosis is usually made by the age of two. The earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better the treatment will be. Many families are able to look for support groups, organizations, and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy usually manifest in the first years of childhood, and result from damage to the brain part that regulates posture and movement. The damage is permanent and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy experience jerky, uncontrolled movements of the feet, hands, and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may drool or have difficulty staying in balance.

The least common kind of CP is ataxic. It causes disorganized and clumsy movements. The people with hypotonic CP have low muscle tone, and their arms and legs move easily and are similar to those of a rug doll.

Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP in the first two years of their lives, unless it is not severe or asymptomatic, chowchilla cerebral palsy lawyer in which case they could diagnose when the child is four or five years old. To reduce the risk of developing CP, women should get vaccinations prior to conception against diseases that could cause brain damage to the fetus such as rubella and German measles. It is essential to take care of all pregnant mothers to avoid complications such as premature birth and an infant who is overweight.

Treatment

Cerebral paralysis can be caused by any cause that hinders brain development, from infections during pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Babies 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, herpes and maternal fever during pregnancy can cause damage to the nervous system that is developing.

Every person's CP treatment plan will differ for each. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist must oversee medical care and create treatment plans that address specific symptoms and needs.

To improve function or reduce pain, medications to lessen the tightness of muscles can be prescribed. In the most severe cases of CP surgery, it can lengthen tight, stiff muscles or correct issues such as an unusually curved spine.

Speech therapists can assist children learn to communicate and help parents enhance their child's communication. Therapy for recreation involves children in enjoyable activities to boost social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development.

Support

The appropriate support can make a significant difference. Families who have cerebral palsy and their children can join a group of individuals with similar experiences at a local meeting or on the internet. Many groups organize fundraising events to raise money and awareness of the condition.

Teachers can assist children with mcdonough cerebral palsy lawyer palsy in school. They can plan ahead when students will be absent because of doctor visits or taking medicine. They can also offer accommodations in the classroom for things like allowing extra time between classes or for taking examinations.

Adults who suffer from CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist on independence, including housing, finding work and benefits. They can also speak to their doctor to find out whether their medications are effective and what could be making their symptoms worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local doctors who specialize in this condition. The database is available to residents of Michigan and allows them to search by insurance provider.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you receive a fair settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure involves gathering more evidence to show that the medical providers and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed malpractice, causing brain injuries and resulted in cerebral palsy.

A legal action seeks financial compensation for the damages your family has experienced and anticipated future expenses. It's also about bringing about changes and additional guidelines to prevent similar injuries from happening to others children in the near future.

Some parents fear that filing a lawsuit over medical malpractice could cause them to appear greedy or look like they don't accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.

It is essential to speak with a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as you can. Each state has its own statute of limitations and the earlier 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 in the next step.