How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

cerebral palsy law firm Palsy is a permanent condition that requires medical attention. Children suffering from CP often visit a pediatrician along with a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. The doctors will take the medical history, take a thorough physical exam and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us today for a time to set up a an appointment for a no-cost case review.

Diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects the ability to move, balance, and control. It is caused by the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain that control muscle movement, and it usually occurs before or shortly after birth.

Doctors can make a diagnosis of cerebral palsy by looking at a child's symptoms along with medical history and physical examination, and observing growth and milestones, and taking a look at the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer the toddler, infant or child to specialists, such as neurologists, orthopedists for children and physiatrists. Skin, urine and blood tests may also be ordered.

Babies born with CP often have delays in developmental milestones. They also have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that are not present in normal infants. They may also have low Apgar scores, which can indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in infants who are still developing. The final diagnosis is usually made by age two. The the earlier a child's condition is recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to find support groups and organizations for their children.

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of cerebral palsy appear in the beginning of childhood and are caused by damage to the brain area that controls movement and posture. This damage is permanent and affects muscle coordination and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements of the feet, hands and arms. They might also have difficulty reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring or struggle to keep their balance, and walk on tiptoe.

Ataxic CP is the least well-known type, resulting in unorganized and clumsy movements. Hypotonic CP is defined by muscle tone that is low and a ragdoll-like motion of the arms and legs.

Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP in the first two years of life, unless it is mild or asymptomatic, in which case they could make a diagnosis by age four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases like rubella and German Measles before they are pregnant to reduce the risk of developing CP. It is also essential for mothers to have regular prenatal check-ups during the pregnancy, which can aid in preventing complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Cerebral Palsy can be caused by any cause that hinders the development of the brain, from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks or who have low birth weight are at increased risk of cerebral palsy. Maternal fever during pregnancy, rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus, cerebral palsy or herpes infections can trigger inflammation that can damage the developing nervous system.

Each individual's CP treatment plan is unique to each. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should oversee medical care and formulate treatment plans that focus on specific symptoms and needs.

To improve functionality or alleviate pain, medications that reduce muscle tightness are available. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted or to correct spinal problems like an unusually bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.

Speech therapists are able to assist children develop their communication skills and teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in activities that encourage social interaction, self-esteem and motor development.

Support

Finding the right support can make all the difference. Parents and children who suffer from cerebral palsy can find a family of people who can relate to their experiences via meetings in their local area or through an online group. Many groups also host events that raise awareness and funds for the condition.

Educators can help kids with cerebral palsy at school. They can plan ahead for times when students will miss class due to medical visits or medication. They can also create accommodations in the classroom, such as allowing students to travel between classes and take exams or attend doctor visits.

Adults who suffer from CP can get advice from an occupational therapist about 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 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 all residents of Michigan and allows them to search by insurance provider.

Legal Issues

Your norwich cerebral palsy lawyer palsy lawyer can help you get a fair settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure involves gathering more evidence to prove the medical facilities and doctors involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence, causing brain injury and resulting in cerebral palsy.

Legal claims seek monetary compensation for the damages your family has suffered as well as expected future costs. It's also about creating changes and other policies to prevent these injuries from occurring to other children in the future.

Parents are concerned that filing a lawsuit for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy, or as if they don't accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient can run into the millions.

It's important to consult an attorney for medical malpractice immediately. Each state has a statute of limitations and the earlier you begin your case, the more effective. A lawyer will explain the laws in your area and what you need to do next.