How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that will last an entire life time and requires medical care. Children with CP are often seen by a pediatrician as well as a physical medicine specialist. Their doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination, take a detailed medical history, and conduct tests such as MRI or CT scans.

A cerebral palsy attorney can assist families to obtain fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us now to schedule a free case review.

Diagnosis

Alexander City Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit palsy is a permanent condition that affects posture, movement, balance and coordination. It is caused by the damage or malfunctions in the parts of the brain which control muscle movement. It usually occurs before, during or shortly after birth.

Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, physical exam as well as 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 urine, blood and skin might also be ordered.

Babies with CP might show delayed development milestones as well as stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions that aren't found in normal babies. Low Apgar scores could also indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition may be difficult to identify in infants who are still developing, and a final diagnosis is generally made by the age of 2. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment can be. Many families find it beneficial to find support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy manifest in the early years of childhood and result from damage to the brain region that regulates posture and movement. This damage is permanent and can affect muscle coordination and body movements.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have uncontrolled, jerky movements of their hands, feet, and arms. They may also have difficulty reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might get swollen and have trouble keeping their balance, and walk on the tip of their toes.

The least commonly-used type of CP is ataxic, which can cause poor coordination and clumsy movement. People with hypotonic CP have a low level of muscle tone, and their legs and arms are able to move easily and mimic the movements of a Rag doll.

Doctors typically diagnose a child with CP during the first 2 years of their lives, unless it is not severe, in which case they could make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women are advised to be vaccinated against illnesses like rubella and German Measles prior the time they become pregnant to lower the risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is crucial for all pregnant mothers to prevent complications such as premature birth and an infant who is overweight.

Treatment

Cerebral Palsy can be caused by anything that interferes with brain development, from maternal infections due to pregnancy, to complications arising during labor and birth to head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks or who have low birth weight are at increased chance of developing cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) as well as herpes, cytomegalovirus and pregnant fever can affect the nervous system of the baby.

The treatment plan for each person suffering from CP differs. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation neurologists or doctors should oversee the medical care and develop an appropriate treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and needs.

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

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

Support

Finding the right support can make all the difference. Parents and children with cerebral palsy can join a family of people who can relate to their experiences by attending an event in the local area or an online group. Many groups hold fundraisers to raise money and awareness of the condition.

Teachers can support children who have carbondale cerebral palsy lawsuit palsy during school. They can plan for students who may miss classes due to doctor's appointments or taking medication. They can also arrange for accommodations in the classroom like allowing students to travel between classes, complete exams or for doctor visits.

Adults with CP may seek advice from an occupational therapist about autonomy, such as housing or finding work and receiving benefits. They can also speak to their doctor to determine if their medications are working and if something could cause their symptoms to worsen.

The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local physicians who specialize in this condition. The database is accessible to those living in Michigan and lets them search by insurance company.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you receive a fair settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure involves gathering more evidence to prove the physicians and medical facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed negligence, causing brain injury and resulted in cerebral palsy.

A legal claim seeks compensation for the losses your family has endured and anticipated future expenses. It's about making adjustments and taking additional measures to prevent these types of injuries from happening in the future.

Some parents worry that bringing a lawsuit for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy or make them appear as if they don't accept the child they have. But the truth is that the cost of caring for a person who suffers from CP can reach into the thousands.

It is important to talk an attorney for medical malpractice immediately. The sooner you file your claim, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can explain the laws in your region, and also what you need to do following.