A How-To Guide For Cerebral Palsy Case From Beginning To End

How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires medical treatment. Children suffering from CP are typically seen by a pediatrician as well as a physical medicine specialist. cerebral palsy lawsuit victorville will conduct a thorough physical exam, take a detailed medical history and perform tests such as MRI or CT scans. A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue fair compensation for their child's entire life needs. Contact us now to schedule an appointment for a no-cost consultation. Diagnosis Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that affects movement, posture, coordination and balance. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's parts which control muscle movement. It typically occurs prior to, 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 the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Tests of blood, urine and skin may also be ordered. Babies with CP might exhibit delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, exaggerated reactions not observed in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which may indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition is difficult to diagnose in infants who are still developing and a definitive diagnosis is usually made at the age of 2. The earlier the child is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options can be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, associations and counseling services for their children. Symptoms The symptoms of cerebral palsy typically manifest in early childhood, and are caused by damage to the brain region that controls the body's posture and movements. This damage is permanent and affects muscle coordination and body movements. Children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy have jerky, uncontrolled movements of the feet, hands, and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching up, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They may be drooling or have trouble keeping their balance. The most common type of CP is ataxic, which causes unorganized and awkward movements. The people with hypotonic CP have a lower muscle tone and their legs and arms are able to move easily and mimic the movements of the Rag doll. Doctors typically diagnose children with CP in the first two years of life, unless the condition is mild or asymptomatic, in which case they may make a diagnosis when the child is four or five years old. To lower the risk of developing CP, women should get vaccinated before pregnancy against diseases that can cause fetal brain damage, including rubella and German measles. It is also essential that mothers receive regular prenatal care during the pregnancy, which can help prevent complications like premature birth and low birth weight. Treatment Cerebral palsy may result from any issue that can hinder the development of the brain, such as infections in the mother during pregnancy or during labor, complications in the process of birth or head injuries. Cerebral palsy occurs more frequently for babies born before 32 weeks or with the baby's weight being low at birth. Inflammation caused by rubella (German Measles) Herpes, cytomegalovirus, herpes and pregnant fever can affect the nervous system of the baby. Each individual's CP treatment plan is different. A pediatric specialist, physical and rehabilitation doctor or neurologist must oversee medical care and develop treatment plans that specifically address the symptoms and requirements. Medicines to reduce muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) could be used to improve function and ease 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 bent back, especially in severe cases of CP. Speech therapists help children learn to communicate or speak and teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Recreational therapy involves children in fun activities that promote social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development. Support A good support system can make all the difference. Families who have cerebral palsy and their children may find groups of people who have the same experiences at local meetings or on the internet. Many groups also host events that raise awareness and funds for the condition. Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy at school. They can plan for students who will miss class because of doctor's visits or medication. They can also create accommodations in the classroom such as extra time for students to travel between classes and take exams or for doctor visits. Adults with 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 about whether their medicines are effective and if there's something that could be making 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 accessible to all residents of Michigan and allows them to search using insurance provider. Legal Issues Your cerebral palsy attorney will help you obtain a fair settlement with the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering additional evidence to prove that the medical professionals and facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence, causing brain injuries and resulting in cerebral palsy. A legal action seeks financial compensation for the losses your family has endured and expected future expenses. It's also about making changes and further policies to prevent these injuries from occurring to any other children in the coming years. Some parents are afraid that filing a lawsuit for medical malpractice could make them look greedy, or appear to accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions. It is crucial to speak with a medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier you file your claim, the more favorable. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand the laws applicable to your area, and what you should do following.