How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral Palsy is a condition that lasts for all of life and requires medical care. Children suffering from CP typically visit a pediatrician as well as a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. Their doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination, take a detailed medical history and perform tests such as MRI or CT scans.
A reputable cerebral-palsy lawyer will assist families in obtaining an equitable amount of settlement for their child's lifetime requirements. Contact us now to schedule an appointment free of charge.
Diagnosis
Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition that affects posture, movement, coordination and balance. It is caused by damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain which control muscles, and it typically occurs before or shortly after birth.
Doctors can diagnose of cerebral palsy by evaluating the child's symptoms such as medical history, physical examination, and observing growth and milestones, and reviewing the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer the infant, toddler or child to specialists like neurologists, pediatric orthopedists and physiatrists. Tests of blood, urine and skin may also be ordered.
Babies with CP might show delayed development milestones stiff muscles, as well as exaggerated reactions that are not seen in normal babies. Low Apgar scores can also indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in infants that are still developing. The final diagnosis is usually made around the age of two. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options can be. Many families find it helpful to seek out support groups and other organizations for their children.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of cerebral palsy appear in early childhood and are caused by damage to the brain region that controls movement and posture. This damage is not reverseable, and it affects the body's movements and muscle coordination.
Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have uncontrolled, jerky movements of the hands, feet and arms. They might also have trouble reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might get swollen, have trouble keeping their balance, and walk on the tip of their toes.
Ataxic CP is the least common type, resulting in disorganized and clumsy movement. Hypotonic CP is characterized by low muscle tone and a rag doll-like movement of the legs and arms.
Doctors usually diagnose a child with CP within the first two years of life, unless it is mild or in which case they may make a diagnosis when the child is four or five years old. Women are advised to be vaccinated against illnesses like rubella and German Measles prior the time they become pregnant to reduce the risk of developing CP. Prenatal care is crucial for all pregnant mothers to prevent complications like premature birth and insufficient weight at birth.
Treatment
Cerebral palsy is caused by any issue that can hinder brain development, from infections during pregnancy, to complications during labor and birth to head injuries. Babies born prior to 32 weeks or with a low birth weight are at a higher chances of developing cerebral paralysis. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and maternal fever during pregnancy can damage the developing nervous system.
Each person's CP treatment plan differs for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist must oversee medical care and formulate treatment plans that focus on specific symptoms and needs.
To improve function or ease pain, medications to reduce the tightness of muscles can be prescribed. 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 help children develop their communication skills and also teach parents how to improve their child's abilities to communicate. cerebral palsy attorney citrus heights helps children participate in enjoyable activities that foster social interaction, self-esteem, and motor skill development.
Support
The appropriate support can make a enormous difference. Parents and children suffering from cerebral palsy are able to find a community of families who can share their experiences via a local meeting or online groups. There are many groups that hold fundraising events that help raise awareness and funds for the condition.
Teachers can support children who have cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can plan for students who may miss classes because of doctor's visits or taking medicine. They can also make accommodation in the classroom for things like allowing extra time to travel between classes or for taking examinations.
Adults who suffer from CP can get advice from an occupational therapist about independence, including housing, finding work and benefits. They can also talk with their doctor to find out whether their medications are effective, and if anything could cause them to feel worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of specialists in the local area in this condition. The database is available to all residents of Michigan and lets them search by insurance company.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy lawyer can help you negotiate an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are accountable for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering more evidence to prove that the medical facilities and doctors involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of negligence, causing brain injury and which led to cerebral palsy.
A legal claim is a means to seek financial compensation for losses incurred by your family members as well as future expenses that are expected. 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 are concerned that filing a medical malpractice suit could make them appear greedy, or that they don't appreciate their child for who they are. However, the reality is that the cost of caring for a person with CP can be in the thousands.
It's important to consult with a medical malpractice attorney whenever you can. Every state has its own time limit for filing a lawsuit and the earlier you begin your case the more effective. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply to your particular area, and tell you what you should do next.