How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that can last for an entire life time and requires medical care. Children with CP typically visit a pediatrician and a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. Their 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 pursue an equitable amount of compensation for their child's entire life needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a complication that impairs the ability to move, balance, and coordinate. It results from damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain which control muscle movement, and it typically occurs before or shortly after birth.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of cerebral palsy by looking at a child's symptoms such as medical history, physical examination, as well as monitoring growth and milestones, and looking over the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Tests of blood, urine and skin can also be ordered.

Babies born with CP often have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes that are not present in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which can suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in babies that are still developing. A final diagnosis is typically made by age two. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options will be. Many families find it beneficial to seek out support groups as well as organizations for their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy usually appear in the beginning of childhood. They are caused by damage to the brain part that controls the movement and posture. This damage is not reverseable and affects the body's movements and muscle coordination.

Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have chaotic, jerky movements with their feet, hands, and arms. They might also have trouble reaching for objects, picking them up and coloring with crayons. They might get swollen or struggle to keep their balance, and walk on tiptoe.

Ataxic CP is the least well-known type, which results in clumsy and disorganized movement. Hypotonic patients CP have a low level of muscle tone and their legs and arms move easily and are similar to those of an toy doll.

Doctors typically diagnose a child with CP during the first 2 years of life, unless the condition is mild, in which case they could diagnose when the child is four or five years old. To decrease the chance of developing CP women should be immunized prior to pregnancy against diseases that may cause brain damage in a fetus, such as rubella and German measles. It is also essential that mothers receive regular prenatal care throughout the pregnancy to help avoid complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy can be caused by any cause that hinders brain development, ranging from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Baby born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are more at risk chance of developing cerebral palsy. Maternal febrile illness during pregnancy, rubella (German measles) and cytomegalovirus infections can cause inflammation that can damage the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for every patient with CP differs. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist must oversee medical care and develop treatment plans that take care of specific symptoms and needs.

To improve function or ease discomfort, medications to ease muscle tightness can be prescribed. In severe cases of CP surgery can lengthen stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct problems like an atypically curving spine.

Speech therapists assist children in learning to communicate and speak, and they can teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. The therapeutic approach to recreation allows children to participate in fun activities that promote social interaction, self-esteem and motor development.

Support

The appropriate support can make a huge difference. Parents and children who suffer from cerebral palsy are able to find an entire community of families who can share their experiences at a local gathering or online group. Many groups have events to raise funds and awareness of the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan for students who will miss class due to medical appointments or taking medication. They can also create arrangements in the classroom, such as extra time for students to travel between classes, take exams or for doctor visits.

Adults with CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, which includes housing, finding work and benefits. They can also talk to their doctor to determine whether their medications are effective and if something could cause them to feel worse.

The youngtown cerebral palsy lawsuit Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local physicians who specialize in this condition. The database is available to those living in Michigan and lets them search by insurance provider.

Legal Issues

Your new franklin Cerebral palsy attorney palsy lawyer will help you receive a fair settlement from medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove that the medical providers and doctors involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence that caused brain injuries and resulted in cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a method to get financial compensation for the loss suffered by your family as well as future expenses that are expected. It's also about bringing about changes and additional policies to prevent such injuries from occurring to any other children in the coming years.

Some parents are afraid that suing for medical malpractice could make them appear greedy or appear to accept the child they have. But the truth is that the cost of caring for someone with CP can be in the thousands.

It is essential to speak with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. Each state has a statute of limitations, and the sooner you begin your case, the more effective. A lawyer can explain the laws applicable to your specific area, as well as what you need to do next.