How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral palsy is a disorder that lasts for a lifetime and requires medical care. Children suffering from CP typically visit a pediatrician and a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. Their doctors will collect the medical history, take an extensive physical exam, and conduct tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.
A cerebral palsy attorney can assist families to obtain an equitable amount of compensation for the lifelong needs of their child. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a no-cost case review.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a long-lasting condition that affects movement, posture, balance and coordination. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to the brain's areas that control muscle movement. It usually develops prior to, during, or shortly after birth.
Doctors can diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, physical examination, milestones, growth, and results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists, like pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. The skin, urine, and blood tests may also be ordered.
Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, as well as hyperactive reactions that aren't typical of normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which may indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in babies that are still developing. A definitive diagnosis is typically made by age two. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options can be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, organizations and counseling services for their children.
Symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy are usually noticed in the first years of childhood, and are caused by damage to the brain area that regulates the body's posture and movements. This damage is permanent and can affect muscle coordination and body movements.
Children who suffer from dyskinetic cerebral palsy exhibit jerky, uncontrolled movements of the hands, feet and arms. They might also have difficulty reaching, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be drooling or have trouble staying in balance.
Ataxic CP is the least frequent type that results in unorganized and awkward movement. Hypotonic CP is characterized by low muscle tone and a rag-doll-like movement of the legs and arms.
Doctors usually detect CP in the first two years of a child's existence, unless there is a mild. In this case, they may diagnose the condition at four or five. To reduce the risk of developing CP, women should get immunized prior to pregnancy against diseases that can cause brain damage in a fetus, like rubella and German measles. Prenatal care is essential for all pregnant mothers to avoid complications such as premature birth and the birth weight being too low.
Treatment
Cerebral palsy is caused by any cause that hinders brain development, ranging from maternal infections due to pregnancy, to complications arising during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more prevalent for babies born before 32 weeks of age, or with babies who are overweight at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and the maternal fever during pregnancy could cause damage to the nervous system that is developing.
Each individual's CP treatment plan differs for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should supervise the medical treatment and create a treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.
To improve function or reduce pain, medications to lessen the tightness of muscles can be prescribed. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted or to correct spinal issues like an abnormally curved back, in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists can help children to develop communication skills and help parents improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in fun activities that promote social interaction, self-esteem, and motor development.
Support
The right support can make a big difference. Families with cerebral palsy and their children can find a group of people who have the same experiences at a local meet or via the internet. Many groups also have fundraisers that raise awareness and funds for the disorder.
Teachers can aid children with cerebral palsy in school. cerebral palsy lawyer flint can plan ahead when students are unable to attend classes because of doctor visits or to take medicine. They can also provide accommodation in the classroom for things like allowing additional time to travel between classes or to take exams.
Adults with CP might seek out advice from an occupational therapist for independence, such as housing, finding a job, and receiving benefits. They can also speak to their doctor about whether their medications are effective and if there's something which could be making the symptoms 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 those living in Michigan and lets them search by insurance company.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy attorney can assist you in negotiating a fair settlement with the medical professionals who are accountable for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering more evidence to prove the physicians and medical facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed negligence, causing brain injuries and that led to cerebral palsy.
A legal action seeks financial compensation for the harms your family has experienced and the anticipated costs for the future. It's about making adjustments and implementing additional policies to prevent these kinds of injuries from occurring in the future.
Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice suit can make them appear greedy or like they don't accept their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.
It's important to consult with a medical malpractice lawyer whenever you can. Every state has its own statute of limitations, and the sooner you begin your case the better. A lawyer will provide you with the laws of your region and explain what you should do next.