How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a long-lasting condition that requires medical treatment. Children with CP are often examined by a pediatrician, as well as a physical medicine specialist. The doctor will take an examination of their medical history, perform a thorough physical exam and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A cerebral palsy lawyer can help families seek fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to review your case for free.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Psy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance, and control. It is caused by the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain which control muscle movement, and it typically occurs prior to or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy on the child's symptoms, medical history, physical exam and milestones, growth and results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists like pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Blood tests, urine tests and skin may also be requested.

Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones as well as stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions that aren't seen in normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which may suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in babies that are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made at age two. The earlier a child is diagnosed the more effective treatment will be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, organizations and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy typically manifest in the beginning of childhood. They are caused by damage to the brain part that controls the body's posture and movements. The damage is irreparable and can affect muscles and body movements.

Children who suffer from dyskinetic cerebral palsy exhibit uncontrolled, jerky movements of the hands, feet and arms. They may also have trouble reaching, picking objects up and coloring with crayons. They might be drooling or have trouble holding their balance.

Ataxic CP is the least common type, resulting in unorganized and awkward movement. Hypotonic CP is characterised by a lack of muscle tone and a ragdoll-like motion of the legs and arms.

Doctors often diagnose a child with CP within the first two years of their lives, unless it is mild and in that case, they may make a diagnosis at age four or five. To reduce the risk of developing CP, women should get vaccinations prior to conception against diseases that may cause fetal brain damage, like rubella and German measles. It is also important that mothers receive regular prenatal visits throughout the pregnancy to help prevent complications like premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Wanaque Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit paralysis can be caused by anything that interferes with brain development, ranging from maternal infections during pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more common for babies born before 32 weeks of age, or with the baby's weight being low at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) as well as herpes, cytomegalovirus and pregnant fever can damage the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for every patient with CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine neurologists or doctors should oversee the medical care and develop an appropriate treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.

Medicines to reduce muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) could be used to improve the function and reduce discomfort or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and tightly contracted or to correct spinal issues like an unusually curve in the back, which is common in cases of CP.

Speech therapists are able to assist children develop their communication skills and help parents improve their child's communication abilities. Recreational therapy involves children in activities that are fun to encourage social interaction, self esteem and motor skills development.

Support

The right support can make significant difference. Parents and children who suffer from patchogue cerebral palsy law firm palsy can find a group of families who can share their experiences through meetings in their local area or through an online group. Many groups organize fundraising events to raise money and raise awareness for the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can help students who may miss classes because of doctor's visits or taking medication. They can also arrange for accommodations in the classroom, such as extra time for students to travel between classes and take exams or attend doctor visits.

Adults suffering from CP can seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding their independence, including the need for housing, obtaining jobs and benefits. They can also consult their doctor to determine whether their medications are working and if something could cause them to feel 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 by insurance provider.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can assist you obtain an equitable settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires more evidence that the medical professionals and medical facilities responsible for your child's birth injury committed mistakes that resulted in cerebral palsy and brain damage.

A legal claim is a method to obtain financial compensation for losses suffered by your family and future expenses that are expected. It's about making changes and implementing additional policies to prevent these types of injuries from happening in the near future.

Parents worry that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit can make them appear greedy or as if they don't like their child for who they are. But the truth is that the cost of caring for a person who suffers from CP can reach into the millions.

Contact a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as you can. Every state has its own time limit for filing a lawsuit and the sooner you begin your case the better. A lawyer will explain the laws in your state and tell you what you need to do next.