How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical care. Children suffering from CP usually visit a pediatrician along with a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. The doctors will conduct a thorough physical exam and take a thorough medical history, and conduct tests like MRI or CT scans.
A trusted cerebral palsy lawyer can help families pursue an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifelong requirements. Contact us today for a time to set up a an appointment to review your case for free.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Psy is a condition that affects the capacity to move, balance and control. It results from damaged or abnormalities in the areas of the brain which control the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before, during or shortly after birth.
Doctors can determine if a child is suffering of cerebral palsy by looking at a child's symptoms such as medical history, physical examination, as well as monitoring the growth and milestones of the child, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They can refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists neurologists, and physiatrists. Testing of urine, blood and skin could also be requested.
Babies with CP may exhibit delayed developmental milestones as well as stiff muscles and exaggerated reactions that aren't typical of normal babies. They may also have low Apgar scores, which may suggest oxygen deprivation. It can be difficult to diagnose the condition in infants that are still developing. A final diagnosis is usually made at age two. The earlier a child is diagnosed the more effective treatment can be. Many families are able to seek out support groups, organizations, and counseling services for their children.
Symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy are usually noticed in early childhood, and result from damage to the brain region that controls the movement and posture. This damage is permanent and can affect muscle coordination and body movements.
Children with dyskinetic cerebral paralysis have unpredictable, jerky movements of their hands, feet and arms. They may also have difficulty reaching, lifting objects and coloring with crayons. They may drool or have difficulty keeping their balance.
Ataxic CP is the least well-known type, which results in unorganized and clumsy movements. The people with hypotonic CP are prone to muscle weakness, and their arms and legs are able to move easily and mimic the movements of a toy doll.
Doctors typically detect CP in the beginning of the child's existence, unless there is a mild. In that case, they might diagnose the condition at four or five. To decrease the chance of developing CP, women should get vaccinated before pregnancy against diseases that may cause brain damage to the fetus including rubella and German measles. It is essential to take care of all pregnant mothers to avoid complications like premature birth and the birth weight being too low.
Treatment
Cerebral Palsy can be caused by any issue that can hinder brain development, from infections during pregnancy to complications during labor and delivery to head injuries. Infants born before 32 weeks or who have low birth weights are at greater chance of developing cerebral palsy. Maternal febrile illness during pregnancy, rubella (German measles) and cytomegalovirus infections can trigger inflammation that harms the developing nervous system.
The treatment plan for each person suffering from CP is different for each patient. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist should oversee the medical treatment and develop the treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.
To improve functionality or alleviate pain, medications that reduce muscle tightness may be used. In extreme cases of CP, surgery can extend stiff, tightly contracted muscles or correct problems such as an unusually curved spine.
Speech therapists can assist children to develop communication skills and also teach parents how to improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation involves children in enjoyable activities to boost social interaction, self esteem and motor skills development.
Support
The proper support can make a huge difference. Parents of children with cerebral palsy as well as their children can find an entire group of people with similar experiences at a local gathering or on the internet. Many groups also hold fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for the disorder.
Educators can help kids with cerebral palsy in the classroom. They can plan ahead for times when students will miss class because of doctor visits or to take medicine. They can also provide arrangements in the classroom, such as allowing students to travel between classes, take tests or doctor visits.
Adults with CP might seek advice from an occupational therapist about autonomy, such as housing, finding a job, and claiming benefits. cerebral palsy lawyer fishers can also talk to their doctor about whether their medicines are working and if they have any other issues that could be causing the symptoms worse.
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 those living in Michigan and allows them to search using insurance company.
Legal Issues
Your cerebral palsy lawyer can assist you receive a fair settlement from the medical professionals who are responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves obtaining more evidence to prove the physicians and medical facilities involved in the birth injury of your child committed acts of negligence, causing brain injury and which led to cerebral palsy.
A legal action seeks financial compensation for the harms your family has endured and expected future costs. It's about making adjustments and implementing additional policies to prevent such injuries from occurring in the future.
Some parents are concerned that filing a medical malpractice suit can make them appear greedy or as if they don't like their child for what they are. The cost of caring for a CP patient can run into the millions.
It is essential to speak with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as you can. Each state has a statute of limitations and the earlier you start your case the more favorable. A lawyer will explain the laws in your region and explain what you need to do next.