How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children suffering from CP are typically seen by a pediatrician as in addition to a physical specialist. The doctor will take an examination of their medical history, perform an extensive physical examination and perform 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 lifelong needs. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance, and coordinate. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's parts which regulate the movement of muscles. It usually manifests before, during, or shortly after birth.
Doctors can diagnose cerebral paralysis based on the child's symptoms, medical history, physical exam, milestones, growth, and the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Skin, urine and blood tests are also possible to order.
Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones as well as stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions not found in normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which can indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition may be difficult to diagnose in infants who are still developing and a definitive diagnosis is typically made around age 2. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options will be. Many families are able to look for support groups, organizations and counseling services for their children.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cerebral paralysis manifest during early childhood and are caused by damage to the brain area that controls movement and posture. This damage is permanent and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.
Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis experience uncontrolled, jerky movements of the feet, hands, and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be drooling or have trouble holding their balance.
Ataxic CP is the least popular type, resulting in clumsy and disorganized movement. The people with hypotonic CP are prone to muscle weakness, and their legs and arms move easily and resemble those of an toy doll.
Doctors typically detect CP in the first two years of a child's life, unless mild. In this situation, they could make a diagnosis at age four or five. To lower the risk of developing CP women should be vaccinated before pregnancy against diseases that can cause brain damage in a fetus, such as rubella and German measles. It is also crucial that mothers receive regular prenatal care during the pregnancy to help avoid complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
cerebral palsy attorney palsy is caused by any issue that can hinder brain development, ranging from maternal infections during pregnancy, to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more common in babies born prior to 32 weeks, or with low weight at birth. Maternal fever during pregnancy rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus or herpes infections may trigger inflammation that can damage the developing nervous system.
The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should supervise the medical treatment and develop a treatment plan to address specific symptoms and requirements.
Treatments to ease muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) might be used to improve the function and ease discomfort or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and tightly contracted, or to correct spinal issues, such as an abnormally curved back, in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists aid children in learning to communicate and speak and can also teach parents how to improve their child's communication. Therapy for recreation helps children take part in activities that encourage social interaction, self-esteem, and motor skill development.
Support
A good support system can make all the difference. Parents and children suffering from cerebral palsy can join a family of people who can share their experiences at a local gathering or online groups. Many groups also host fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for the condition.
Educational professionals can assist children suffering from cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can plan ahead for when students will miss classes because of medical appointments or to take medicine. They can also create accommodations in the classroom, such as allowing students to travel between classes, take exams or for doctor visits.
Adults who suffer from CP can seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, which includes the need for housing, obtaining jobs and benefits. They can also talk with their doctor to determine whether their medication is working and if something could be causing their symptoms to get worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local doctors who specialize in this condition. The database is accessible to those living in Michigan and lets them search by insurance company.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy Lawyer (
http://bbs.ts3sv.com) will help you get a fair settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires more evidence to prove that the medical professionals and medical facilities responsible for the birth injury suffered by your child committed mistakes that resulted in cerebral palsy and brain damage.
A legal claim can be a means to seek financial compensation for the loss suffered by your family members as well as future expenses that are expected. It's about making adjustments and adopting additional policies to prevent such injuries from happening in the future.
Some parents are afraid that suing for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy or appear to accept the child they have. But the reality is that the cost of caring for a person suffering from CP could be in the thousands.
It is important to talk with a medical malpractice lawyer as soon as you can. The sooner you file your claim, the better. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your particular area and the steps you should do next.