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5 Cerebral Palsy Case Lessons From The Pros
How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children suffering from CP are often seen by a pediatrician, as in addition to a physical specialist. Their doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination and will take a complete medical history and perform tests such as MRI or CT scans.

A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifelong needs. Contact us today to arrange an appointment for a no-cost case review.

Diagnosis

Cerebral paralysis is a permanent condition that affects movement, posture, coordination and balance. It is caused by damage or abnormalities to parts of the brain that control the movement of muscles. It usually develops prior to or shortly after birth.

Doctors are able to diagnose cerebral palsy based on the child's symptoms, 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. Tests of urine, blood and skin may also be requested.

Babies with CP might show delayed development milestones as well as stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions not typical of normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which may indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to identify in infants who are still developing and a definitive diagnosis is usually made by the age of two. The earlier a child's condition can be diagnosed, the better treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to find support groups and organizations for their children.

Signs and symptoms

The signs of cerebral palsy are evident in early childhood and are caused by damage to the brain part that regulates posture and movement. This damage is not reversible and can affect body movements and muscle coordination.

Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have unpredictable, jerky movements of their hands, feet, and arms. They may 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 popular type that results in unorganized and clumsy movements. Hypotonic patients CP have a lower muscle tone and their legs and arms move easily and are similar to those of a rug doll.

Doctors typically diagnose children with CP within the first two years of their lives, unless it is mild, in which case they may make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases such as rubella and German Measles before they are pregnant to reduce the risk of developing CP. It is essential to take care of all pregnant mothers to avoid complications like premature birth and low weight at birth.

Treatment

Cerebral Palsy can result from anything that interferes in the development of the brain, such as maternal infections during pregnancy or during labor, complications in the process of birth or head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more prevalent in babies born before 32 weeks or with the baby's weight being low at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles), herpes, cytomegalovirus and the mother's fever during pregnancy can affect the nervous system of the baby.

Each person's CP treatment plan differs for each patient. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should supervise medical care and develop treatment plans that take care of specific symptoms and needs.

To improve function or reduce pain, medications to lessen muscle tightness may be used. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted or to correct spinal issues such as an unnaturally bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.

Speech therapists can assist children to develop communication skills and teach parents how to improve their child's communication abilities. Recreational therapy involves children in activities that are fun to encourage social interaction, self-esteem and motor skill development.

Support

Finding the right support can make all the difference. Parents and children suffering from cerebral palsy are able to find an entire community of families who can relate to their experiences at an event in the local area or an online group. Many groups organize events to raise funds and raise awareness for the condition.

Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan ahead for when students will miss classes due to medical visits or taking medicine. They can also make accommodations in the classroom like allowing students to travel between classes, complete exams or for doctor visits.


Adults suffering from CP can get advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, such as the need for housing, obtaining jobs and benefits. They can also speak to their doctor to determine whether their medications are effective or if something else could be causing their symptoms to get worse.

cerebral palsy attorneys detroit and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains an inventory of local specialists with this condition. The database is available to residents of Michigan and allows them to search using insurance provider.

Legal Issues

Your cerebral palsy lawyer can assist you obtain a fair settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal procedure is about gathering more evidence to prove that the medical professionals and facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence, causing brain injury and that led to cerebral palsy.

A legal claim is a means to obtain financial compensation for the losses suffered by your family members and for future expenses that are anticipated. It's about making adjustments and adopting additional policies to prevent such injuries from occurring in the future.

Some parents fear that suing for medical malpractice could cause them to appear greedy or make them appear as if they don't accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.

It's important to consult with a medical malpractice attorney immediately. The sooner you file your case the better. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can provide you with the laws that apply in your region, and also what you should do in the next step.

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