Cerebral Palsy Case Tips That Can Change Your Life
How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral psy is a condition that can last for all of life and requires medical attention. Children with CP are typically seen by a pediatrician also a physical therapy specialist. The doctor will take a medical history, do thorough physical examinations and perform tests like an MRI or CT scan.
A reputable lawyer for cerebral palsy will assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of compensation for their child's entire life needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a complication that affects the ability to move, balance, and control. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to brain regions which regulate muscle movement. It usually manifests before or during or shortly after birth.
Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, physical exam and milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Tests of urine, blood and skin can also be requested.
Babies born with CP often have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes, which are not seen in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which can suggest oxygen deprivation. It isn't easy to recognize the condition in babies that are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made at the age of two. The earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to find support groups and organizations for their children.
Symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy typically manifest in the first years of childhood, and are caused by damage done to the part of brain that regulates posture and movement. 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 hands, feet and arms. They may also have difficulties reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may snore and have trouble keeping their balance and walk on tiptoe.
Ataxic CP is the least popular type, resulting in unorganized and awkward movement. cerebral palsy attorney buena park with hypotonic CP have low muscle tone, and their arms and legs move easily and are similar to those of the rag doll.
Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP during the first 2 years of life, unless it is mild, in which case they could make a diagnosis when the child is four or five years old. Women must be vaccinated against diseases such as rubella and German Measles prior to pregnancy to lower the risk of developing CP. It is also important for mothers to have regular prenatal visits throughout the pregnancy, which can help avoid complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
Cerebral Palsy can result by anything that hinders the development of the brain, such as pregnant infections as well as complications during labor and birth or head injuries. Babies born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are at a higher chances of developing cerebral paralysis. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) as well as herpes, cytomegalovirus and the mother's fever during pregnancy can cause damage to the nervous system that is developing.
The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP differs. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine neurologists or doctors should oversee the medical treatment and create a treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.
Medications to reduce muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) may be used to improve 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 such as an unnaturally curved back, in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists can aid children to develop communication skills and teach parents how to improve their child's abilities to communicate. The therapeutic approach to recreation allows children to participate in activities that stimulate social interaction, self-esteem, and motor development.
Support
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 an event in the local area or an online group. Many groups also host events that raise awareness and funds to help treat the condition.
Teachers can help children with cerebral palsy during school. They can make plans for students who will miss class due to doctor's appointments or medication. They can also make accommodations in the classroom to accommodate things like providing extra time to travel between classes or to take exams.
Adults with CP might seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding autonomy, such as housing and finding a job and receiving benefits. They can also consult their doctor to find out whether their medications are effective and if something could be making their symptoms worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of local experts in this condition. It is accessible to those living in Michigan and permits users to search using their insurance provider.
Legal Questions
Your cerebral palsy attorney will help you obtain an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are accountable for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to show that the physicians and medical facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence that caused brain injuries and which led to cerebral palsy.
A legal claim is a way to seek financial compensation for losses suffered by your family members and for the future costs that are anticipated. It's also about making changes and further policies to prevent these injuries from happening to any other children in the coming years.
Some parents worry that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit could make them appear greedy, or make it appear that they don't respect their child for who they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can run into the millions.
It is important to talk with a medical malpractice lawyer whenever you can. The sooner you file your case, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can provide you with the laws that apply in your region, and also what you need to do following.