How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that lasts a lifetime and requires medical care. Children with CP are often examined by a pediatrician, as well as a physical medicine specialist. Their doctors will take an medical history, conduct thorough physical examinations and perform tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer will assist families in obtaining fair settlement for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that affects movement, posture, coordination and balance. It results from damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain which control muscles, and it typically manifests before, during or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy attorneys paralysis based on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, cerebral palsy lawsuits physical exam milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists neurologists, and physiatrists. Blood tests, urine tests and skin can also be ordered.

Babies born with CP often have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes, which are not seen in normal babies. Low Apgar scores could also indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition can be difficult to recognize in babies who are still developing and a definitive diagnosis is typically made around the age of 2. The sooner a child's illness is recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy manifest during early childhood and result from damage to the brain part that regulates posture and movement. This damage cannot be reversed and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.

Children who suffer from dyskinetic cerebral palsy exhibit jerky, uncontrolled movements of the hands, feet and arms. They may also experience difficulty reaching, lifting objects and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring, have trouble keeping their balance, and walk on tiptoe.

The least commonly-used kind of CP is ataxic, which causes slow and unorganized movements. Hypotonic CP is known as a condition that causes low muscle tone and a rag doll-like movement of the legs and arms.

Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP during the first two years of their lives, unless it is not severe, in which case they may make a diagnosis at the age of four or five. Women should be vaccinated against diseases such as rubella and German Measles before pregnancy to reduce their risk of developing CP. It is essential to take care of all mothers during pregnancy to prevent complications such as premature birth and insufficient weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral paralysis can be caused by any issue that can hinder brain development, from infections during pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks of age or with low birth weight are at increased chance of developing Cerebral Palsy Lawsuits palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) as well as herpes, cytomegalovirus and the maternal fever during pregnancy could affect the nervous system of the baby.

The treatment plan for every individual with CP differs. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should supervise the medical care and develop the treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.

To improve functionality or alleviate discomfort, medications to ease muscle tightness are available. In extreme cases of CP, surgery can lengthen tight, stiff muscles, or correct problems such as an abnormally curved spine.

Speech therapists can aid children develop their communication skills and teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. The therapeutic approach to recreation involves children participating in fun activities to promote social interaction, self-esteem and motor skill development.

Support

The right support can make a huge difference. Families affected by cerebral palsy and their children may find a group of individuals with similar experiences at a local meet or on the internet. Many groups also host fundraisers that raise awareness and funds for the condition.

Teachers can support children who have cerebral palsy at school. They can plan for students who may miss classes due to doctor's appointments or medication. They can also create accommodations in the classroom for example, allowing students to travel between classes and take tests or doctor visits.

Adults with CP can seek out advice from an occupational therapist on independence, which includes housing, getting jobs and benefits. They can also speak to their doctor to find out whether their medication is working, and if anything could be causing their symptoms to get worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has an inventory of local doctors who specialize in this condition. The database is available to those living in Michigan and allows them to search using insurance provider.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy attorney can assist you in negotiating an appropriate settlement with medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove the medical professionals and cerebral palsy lawsuits facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed negligence, causing brain injury and which led to cerebral palsy.

A legal action seeks financial compensation for the losses your family has suffered as well as expected future expenses. It's about making adjustments and implementing additional policies to prevent such injuries from happening in the near future.

Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit can make them appear greedy or as if they don't like their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.

It is crucial to speak with a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as you can. The earlier 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 specific area, as well as what you need to do next.