How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children with CP often visit a pediatrician and a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. The doctors will conduct a thorough physical exam and take a thorough medical history and perform tests such as MRI or CT scans.
A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue an equitable amount of settlement for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.
Diagnosis
Cerebral paralysis is a permanent condition that affects posture, movement, coordination and balance. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's parts which regulate muscle movement. It usually occurs before or during or shortly after birth.
Doctors are able to diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptoms and medical history, physical examination milestones, growth and 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 might also be ordered.
Babies born with CP typically have delays in the development milestones, and have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that are not present in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which could suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in babies that are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made around the age of two. The the earlier a child's condition is diagnosed, the better the treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to look for support groups and organizations for their children.
Signs and symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy are evident in the beginning of childhood and are caused by damage to the part of the brain that controls movement and posture. This damage is permanent and affects muscle coordination and body movements.
Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have unpredictable, jerky movements of their hands, feet, and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may snore or struggle to keep their balance and walk on tiptoe.
The most commonly used type of CP is ataxic, which results in unorganized and awkward movements. Hypotonic patients CP have a low level of muscle tone and their arms and legs are able to move easily and mimic the movements of an rug doll.
Doctors typically detect CP within the first two years of a child's life, unless it is mild. In that case, they may make a diagnosis at age four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases like rubella and German Measles prior to pregnancy to decrease the chance of developing CP. It is also crucial for mothers to have regular prenatal care during the pregnancy to help avoid complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
Cerebral paralysis can be caused by any cause that hinders brain development, from maternal infections in pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Cerebral palsy is more common when babies are born before 32 weeks, or with an infant who is overweight at birth. Maternal fever during pregnancy rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus, or herpes infections can cause inflammation that can damage the developing nervous system.
The treatment plan for every person suffering from CP differs. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should oversee medical care and formulate treatment plans that specifically address the symptoms and requirements.
The use of medications to lessen the tightness of muscles (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) may be used to improve performance and reduce discomfort or other symptoms. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and tightly contracted, or to correct spinal issues like an unusually curved back, in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists aid children in learning to communicate or speak, and they can teach parents how to help their child's communication. Recreational therapy involves children in activities that are fun to encourage social interaction, self esteem and motor skills development.
Support
The proper support can make a significant difference. Families with cerebral palsy and their children can connect with a group of people who share similar experiences at a local meet or via the internet. Many groups host fundraisers to raise funds and raise awareness for the condition.
Educators can help kids with cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can help students who will miss class because of doctor's visits or medication. They can also arrange for accommodations in the classroom, such as allowing students to travel between classes and complete exams or for doctor visits.
Adults suffering from CP might seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding the issues of independence, like housing or finding work and claiming benefits. They can also consult their doctor to find out if their medications are working or if something else could cause their symptoms to worsen.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has a database of local doctors who specialize in this condition. The database is available to all residents of Michigan and allows them to search using insurance company.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you obtain an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering more evidence to show that the medical professionals and facilities involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of malpractice, causing brain injuries and resulted in cerebral palsy.
A legal claim is a way to seek financial compensation for losses incurred by your family and future expenses that are anticipated. It's about making changes and implementing additional policies to prevent these kinds of injuries from happening in the future.
cerebral palsy law firm kalamazoo are afraid that filing a lawsuit for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy or appear to accept the child they have. But the truth is that the cost of caring for someone with CP can run into the thousands.
Contact a lawyer for medical malpractice as soon as you are able to. The sooner you file your case, the more favorable. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your particular area and the steps you need to do next.