How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires medical attention. Children suffering from CP are often examined by a pediatrician as well as a physical medicine specialist. The doctors will take a medical history, do a thorough physical exam and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan.

A cerebral palsy attorney can help families obtain fair compensation for the lifetime needs of their child. Contact us today for a time to set up a an appointment to review your case for free.

Diagnosis

Cerebral Psy is a condition which affects the capacity to move, balance, and coordinate. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's areas which control the movement of muscles. It typically occurs prior to or during or shortly after birth.

Doctors are able to diagnose cerebral palsy based on a child's symptoms as well as medical history, physical exam as well as milestones, growth and results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists such as pediatric orthopedists neurologists, and physiatrists. Blood tests, urine tests and skin may also be requested.

Babies with CP may show delayed developmental milestones stiff muscles, as well as exaggerated reactions that are not observed in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which may suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to recognize in babies who are still developing and a final diagnosis is usually made by age 2. The earlier a child's condition can be diagnosed, the better treatment will be. Many families are able to look for support groups, associations and counseling services for their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cerebral palsy are usually noticed in the early years of childhood and result from damage to the brain region that controls the movement and posture. The damage is irreparable and can affect the body's movements and muscle coordination.

Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have chaotic, jerky movements with their hands, feet and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching out, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might be slurring and have trouble keeping their balance, and walk on the tip of their toes.

Ataxic CP is the least common kind, resulting in disorganized and clumsy movement. The people with hypotonic CP have a lower muscle tone, and their arms and legs are able to move easily and mimic the movements of the toy doll.

Doctors typically diagnose CP in the first two years of a child's life, unless mild. In that situation, they could determine a diagnosis as young as four or five. Women are advised to be vaccinated against illnesses such as rubella and German Measles prior the time they become pregnant to lower the risk of developing CP. It is also essential for mothers to have regular prenatal care throughout the pregnancy, which could help avoid complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Cerebral Palsy can result by any cause that affects the development of the brain, such as pregnant infections or during labor, complications in the process of birth or head injuries. Babies born prior to 32 weeks of age or with low birth weights are at greater likelihood of developing cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and the maternal fever during pregnancy could damage the developing nervous system.

The treatment plan for every person with CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist will oversee the medical care and formulate a treatment plan to address specific symptoms and requirements.

Medications to reduce muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA and Botox) may be used to improve performance and ease pain or other signs. In the case of severe cases of CP surgery can lengthen stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct issues like an atypically curving spine.

Speech therapists can aid children develop their communication skills and teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in activities that stimulate social interaction, self-esteem, and motor development.

Support

Finding the right support can make all the difference. Families with albion cerebral palsy attorney palsy and their children may find groups of people who have the same experiences at a local gathering or via the internet. Many groups organize events to raise funds and raise awareness about the condition.

Teachers can assist children with gonzales Cerebral palsy attorney (vimeo.com) palsy in the classroom. They can plan for students who will miss class due to doctor's visits or medication. They can also create accommodations in the classroom, for example, allowing students to travel between classes and take exams or attend doctor visits.

Adults suffering from CP might seek advice from an occupational therapist on autonomy, such as housing and finding a job and claiming benefits. They can also talk with their doctor to determine if their medications are working and if there's anything which could be making the 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 available to residents of Michigan and allows them to search for doctors by insurance company.

Legal Questions

Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you obtain an equitable settlement with the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering more evidence that the doctors and medical facilities accountable for your child's birth injury committed mistakes that resulted in brain damage and cerebral palsy.

A legal claim seeks compensation for the losses your family has experienced and the anticipated costs for the future. It's also about making changes and implementing additional guidelines to prevent similar injuries from occurring to others children in the near future.

Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice lawsuit makes them look greedy or make it appear that they don't respect their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can be in the millions.

It is important to talk with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you file your case the more favorable. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can help you understand Log in the laws applicable to your specific area, as well as what you need to do in the next step.