How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children with CP are usually seen by a pediatrician, also a physical therapy specialist. Their doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination and take a thorough medical history and perform tests like MRI or CT scans.
A cerebral palsy attorney can help families seek fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us now to schedule an appointment free of charge.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a disorder that impairs the ability to move, balance, and control. It results from the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain that regulate muscle movement. It usually occurs before or shortly after birth.
Doctors are able to diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, physical examination and milestones, growth and results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Skin, urine and blood tests can also be ordered.
Babies with CP may show delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, exaggerated reactions that aren't seen in normal babies. Low Apgar scores may also be a sign of oxygen deprivation. The condition is difficult to identify in infants who are still developing, and a definitive diagnosis is usually made by the age of two. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to look for support groups and other organizations for their children.
Symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy are evident in the beginning of childhood and are caused by damage to the brain area that regulates posture and movement. The damage is permanent and affects the coordination of muscles and body movements.
Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements in their hands, feet and arms. They may also experience difficulty reaching, picking objects up and coloring with crayons. They may be drooling or have difficulty maintaining their balance.
Ataxic CP is the least popular type that results in unorganized and awkward movement. Hypotonic CP is characterized by low muscle tone and a ragdoll-like motion of the legs and arms.
Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP during the first 2 years of life, unless the condition is mild or in which case they could diagnose by age four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases like rubella and German Measles before pregnancy to reduce their risk of developing CP. It is essential to take care of all pregnant mothers to avoid complications such as premature birth and the birth weight being too low.
Treatment
Cerebral Palsy can result from any issue that can hinder the development of the brain, such as pregnant infections as well as complications during labor and birth or head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are more at risk chance of developing cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and the mother's fever during pregnancy can affect the nervous system of the baby.
Each individual's CP treatment plan differs for each patient. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist should oversee the medical care and formulate the treatment plan that addresses 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 can extend stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct problems like an unnaturally curving spine.
Speech therapists help children learn to communicate and speak and also instruct parents how to improve their child's communication. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in activities that encourage social interaction, self-esteem, and motor development.
Support
The proper support can make a huge difference. Families affected by cerebral palsy and their children can join a group of individuals who have the same experiences at a local gathering or on the internet. Many groups hold fundraising events to raise money and awareness of the condition.
Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can arrange for students who are unable to attend class because of doctor's visits or taking medicine. They can also offer accommodation in the classroom for things like allowing extra time to travel between classes or to take examinations.
Adults with CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist about independence, including housing, getting jobs and benefits. They can also talk to their doctor about whether or not their medicines are effective and if there's something which could be making the symptoms worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local doctors who specialize in this condition. It is available to people who live in Michigan, and it allows users to search for their insurance provider.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you obtain an acceptable settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires gathering more evidence to prove that the doctors and medical facilities accountable for the birth injury of your child committed errors that caused brain damage and cerebral palsy.
A legal claim seeks compensation for the damages your family has endured and expected future expenses. It's also about creating changes and other policies to prevent these injuries from happening to children of other children in the future.
cerebral palsy lawyer apple valley worry that suing for medical malpractice will cause them to appear greedy or as if they don't accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient could be in the millions.
It's important to consult with a medical malpractice lawyer immediately. Every state has its own time limit for filing a lawsuit and the earlier you begin your case, the more favorable. A lawyer will discuss the laws in your particular area and the steps you should do next.