How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral Palsy is an illness that lasts all of life and requires medical care. Children with CP are typically seen by a pediatrician in addition to a physical specialist. The doctor will take the medical history, take a thorough physical exam and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.
A reputable cerebral-palsy lawyer can help families seek fair compensation for their child's entire life needs. Contact us now to schedule a free case review.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance and coordinate. It is caused by damaged or abnormalities in the areas of the brain that control muscles, and it typically manifests before or shortly after birth.
Doctors can make a diagnosis of cerebral palsy by looking at a child's symptoms as well as medical history and physical examination, as well as monitoring growth and milestones, as well as taking a look at the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Testing of urine, blood and skin can also be ordered.
Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, exaggerated reactions not typical of normal babies. They also might have low Apgar scores, which could suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in infants that are still developing. The final diagnosis is usually made around age two. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to find support groups and organizations for their children.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of cerebral palsy manifest during early childhood and are caused by damage to the part of the brain that regulates posture and movement. This damage is not reversible, and it affects body movements and muscle coordination.
Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements in their feet, hands, and arms. They might also have trouble reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might drool or have difficulty keeping their balance and walk on tiptoe.
The least common kind of CP is ataxic, which causes unorganized and awkward movements. People with hypotonic CP have a lower muscle tone and their arms and legs move easily and resemble those of the toy doll.
Doctors typically detect CP in the beginning of the child's life, unless it is mild. In that case, they might diagnose the condition at four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases such as rubella and German Measles prior the time they become pregnant to decrease the chance of developing CP. It is also important for mothers to receive regular prenatal check-ups during the pregnancy. This can aid in preventing complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
Cerebral palsy is caused by anything that affects the development of the brain, from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more prevalent for babies born before 32 weeks of age, or with the baby's weight being low at birth. Maternal fever during pregnancy rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus, or herpes infections may trigger inflammation that affects the development of the nervous system.
Each individual's CP treatment plan is different. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine neurologists or doctors should oversee the medical care and formulate an appropriate treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.
The use of medications to lessen the tightness of muscles (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) could be used to improve functionality and ease discomfort or other signs. In severe cases of CP surgery, it can lengthen tight, stiff muscles or correct issues such as an abnormally curved spine.
Speech therapists aid children in learning to speak or communicate and can also teach parents how to facilitate their child's communication skills. Recreational therapy involves children in activities that are fun to encourage social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development.
Support
A good support system can make all the difference. Parents and children who suffer from cerebral palsy will find a group of families who can share their experiences at meetings in their local area or through an online group. Many groups also hold fundraising events that help raise awareness and funds for the condition.
cerebral palsy lawyer boynton beach can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan ahead for when students are unable to attend classes because of medical appointments or to take medication. They can also make accommodations in the classroom to accommodate things like allowing extra time to travel between classes or for taking exams.
Adults suffering from CP can seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, which includes housing, getting a job and benefits. They can also talk to their doctor to determine if their medicines are working and if there's anything that could be causing the symptoms worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of specialists in the local area who specialize in this condition. It is available to people who live in Michigan, and it allows users to search using their insurance company.
Legal Questions
Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you receive an equitable settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering more evidence to show that the medical facilities and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of negligence that caused brain injuries and resulting in cerebral palsy.
A legal claim seeks compensation for the damages your family has suffered as well as the anticipated costs for the future. It's also about bringing about changes and additional guidelines to prevent similar injuries from occurring to others children in the near future.
Some parents are afraid that bringing a lawsuit for medical malpractice could make them appear greedy or as if they don't accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient could be in the millions.
Get a medical malpractice lawyer on your side as soon as you are able to. The earlier you file your claim, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply in your specific area, as well as what you should do following.