15 Best Documentaries On Cerebral Palsy Case

How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a disorder that will last a lifetime and requires medical care. Children with CP frequently visit a pediatrician as well as a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. Their doctors will collect an medical history, conduct thorough physical examinations and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer will assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of settlement for their child's lifetime requirements. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Palsy is a long-lasting condition that affects posture, movement, coordination and balance. It results from the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain which control the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before, during or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy on the child's symptoms, medical history, physical exam, milestones, growth, and results of diagnostic tests. They can 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 with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, hyperactive reactions that aren't found in normal babies. Low Apgar scores may also be a sign of oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in babies that are still developing. A definitive diagnosis is usually made by age two. The earlier a child's condition can be recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to join support groups and other organizations for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy manifest during early childhood and result from damage to the part of the brain that controls movement and posture. The damage is irreparable and affects the body's movements and muscle coordination.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have jerky, uncontrolled movements of the feet, hands, and arms. They might also have trouble reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be drooling or have difficulty maintaining their balance.

Ataxic CP is the least frequent 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 rag doll.

Doctors usually diagnose CP in the first two years of a child's life, unless mild. In that case, they may be able to diagnose it at four or five. To reduce the risk of developing CP women should be immunized prior to pregnancy against diseases that may cause fetal brain damage, such as rubella and German measles. Prenatal care is important for all mothers during pregnancy to prevent complications like premature birth and insufficient weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral palsy can be caused by anything that affects brain development, ranging from maternal 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 chances of developing cerebral paralysis. Maternal fever during pregnancy rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus, or herpes infections can cause inflammation that can damage the developing nervous system.

Each individual's CP treatment plan will differ for each. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should supervise medical care and create treatment plans that focus on specific symptoms and needs.

To improve function or reduce discomfort, medications to ease muscle tightness may be used. In severe cases of CP surgery, it can extend stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct problems like an unnaturally curving spine.

Speech therapists can help children learn to communicate and also teach parents how to enhance their child's communication. Recreational therapy involves children in fun activities that promote social interaction, self esteem and motor skills development.

Support

Getting the right support can make all the difference. Parents and children with cerebral palsy can find a family of people who can share their experiences through an event in the local area or an online group. Many groups have fundraisers to raise money and raise awareness for the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can help students who cannot attend class because of doctor's visits or medication. They can also provide accommodation in the classroom for things like giving students extra time to travel between classes or to take exams.

Adults suffering from CP may seek advice from an occupational therapist for autonomy, such as housing and finding a job and receiving benefits. They can also speak to their doctor about whether or not their medications are working and if they have any other issues which could be making the symptoms worse.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of local specialists in this field. The database is available to all residents of Michigan and allows them to search by insurance company.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can assist you obtain an appropriate settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove the medical professionals and facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence, causing brain injuries and resulted in cerebral palsy.

A legal action seeks financial compensation for the losses your family has experienced and expected future expenses. It's also about creating changes and other guidelines to prevent similar injuries from occurring to children of other children in the future.

Some parents are afraid that filing a lawsuit over medical malpractice will make them look greedy, or as if they don't accept the child they have. However, the truth is that the cost of caring for someone with CP can reach into the millions.

It's important to consult an attorney for medical malpractice immediately. Each state has a statute of limitations, and the sooner you begin your case, the better. A lawyer will provide you with the laws of your region and explain what you must do next.