How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
cerebral palsy lawsuit palsy is a long-lasting condition that requires medical care. Children suffering from CP usually visit a pediatrician and a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. Their doctors will collect a medical history, do an extensive physical exam, and conduct tests such as an MRI or CT scan.
A cerebral palsy attorney can assist families in obtaining fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us now to schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation.
Diagnosis
Cerebral paralysis is a permanent condition that affects posture, vivamedia.ca movement, coordination and balance. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to brain regions that regulate the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before or during or shortly after birth.
Doctors can determine if a child is suffering of cerebral palsy by looking at the child’s symptoms such as medical history, physical exam, monitoring growth and milestones, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists neurologists and physiatrists. Blood tests, urine tests and skin may also be ordered.
Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, as well as exaggerated reactions not found in normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which can indicate oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to determine the condition in infants who are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made by the age of two. The earlier a child’s condition is recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families find it beneficial to look for support groups and organizations for their children.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of cerebral palsy manifest in the early years of childhood and are caused by damage to the brain area that controls movement and posture. This damage is not reverseable and can affect the coordination of muscles and body movements.
Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis experience uncontrolled, jerky movements of the feet, hands, and arms. They may also have difficulty reaching, picking objects up and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring, have trouble keeping their balance and walk on tiptoe.
Ataxic CP is the least popular type, which results in unorganized and clumsy movements. People with hypotonic CP have a low level of muscle tone, and their arms and legs are able to move easily and mimic the movements of a rag doll.
Doctors typically diagnose a child with CP during the first two years of life, unless it is not severe or asymptomatic, in which case they could diagnose by age four or five. Women should be vaccinated against diseases like rubella and German Measles before they are pregnant to reduce their risk of developing CP. It is also crucial for mothers to have regular prenatal care during the pregnancy, which can aid in preventing complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Treatment
Cerebral Palsy can be caused by anything that hinders the development of the brain, such as pregnant infections, complications during labor and birth or head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks or who have low birth weight are at increased 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.
Every person’s CP treatment plan will differ for each. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist should oversee medical care and formulate treatment plans that specifically address the symptoms and requirements.
Medications to reduce the tightness of muscles (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) can be used to improve functionality and reduce pain or other signs. In severe cases of CP surgery can extend stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct a problem like an unnaturally curving spine.
Speech therapists help children learn to communicate and speak and can also teach parents how to improve their child’s communication. Recreational therapy involves children in fun activities that promote social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development.
Support
The right support can make a enormous difference. Parents and children suffering from cerebral palsy are able to find a family of people who can relate to their experiences via an event in the local area or an online groups. Many groups also host events that raise awareness and funds to help treat the condition.
Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can plan ahead for times when students will miss class because of medical appointments or to take medicine. They can also provide accommodations in the classroom to accommodate things like allowing extra time between classes or for taking tests.
Adults suffering from CP are able to seek advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, such as housing, getting a job and benefits. They can also speak to their doctor to find out if their medications are effective and if there’s something that could be making the symptoms worse.
The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan maintains a database of specialists in the local area who specialize in this condition. It is available to people who live in Michigan and permits users to search using their insurance provider.
Legal Questions
Your cerebral palsy attorney will assist you in negotiating an equitable settlement with the medical professionals who are responsible for your child’s injuries. The legal process requires more evidence that proves that the doctors and medical facilities responsible for jkjl.d8.9.adl your child’s birth injury committed errors that caused brain damage and cerebral palsy.
A legal claim can be a means to get financial compensation for losses suffered by your family members as well as future expenses that are anticipated. It’s also about creating changes and other procedures to stop such injuries from happening to other children in the future.
Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit can 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 who suffers from CP can be in the millions.
It’s important to consult with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as you can. The sooner you file your case, the better. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will provide you with the laws of your particular area and the steps you must do next.