How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case
Cerebral dysplasia is a lifelong condition that requires medical care. Children with CP are usually seen by a pediatrician, as well as a physical medicine specialist. Their doctors will collect the medical history, take thorough physical examinations and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan.
A reputable lawyer for cerebral palsy can assist families in obtaining fair settlement for their child's lifetime needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation.
Diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy is a complication that affects the ability to move, balance and coordinate. It is caused by abnormalities or damage to the brain's parts that control the movement of muscles. It usually manifests before, during, or shortly after birth.
Doctors can determine if a child is suffering of cerebral palsy through analyzing a child's symptoms such as medical history, physical examination, observing milestones and growth, and review the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler or child to specialists, such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists and physiatrists. Testing of urine, blood and skin could also be ordered.
Babies with CP might show delayed development milestones stiff muscles, as well as exaggerated reactions that are not found in normal babies. Low Apgar scores can also indicate oxygen deprivation. It isn't easy to recognize the condition in babies that are still developing. A final diagnosis is typically made by age two. The sooner a child's illness is diagnosed, the better treatment will be. Many families find it helpful to find support groups and other organizations for their children.
Signs and symptoms
The signs of cerebral palsy typically manifest in the beginning of childhood. They are caused by damage done to the part of brain that controls the movement and posture. This damage cannot be reversed and can affect body movements and muscle coordination.
Children suffering from dyskinetic cerebral palsy have chaotic, jerky movements with their feet, hands and arms. They may 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 CP is characterised by a lack of muscle tone and a ragdoll-like motion of the legs and arms.
Doctors usually diagnose CP in the beginning of the child's life, unless it is mild. In this case, they may determine a diagnosis as young as four or five. Women should be vaccinated for diseases such as rubella and German Measles before pregnancy to decrease the chance of developing CP. Prenatal care is important for all pregnant mothers to avoid complications such as premature birth and an infant who is overweight.
Treatment
Cerebral Palsy can be caused by any cause that affects the development of the brain, such as infections in the mother during pregnancy as well as complications during labor and birth, or head injuries. Babies born before 32 weeks or with a low birth weights are at greater risk of cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles) and herpes, cytomegalovirus and pregnant fever can damage the developing nervous system.
Every patient's CP treatment plan will differ for each. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist will oversee the medical treatment and create the treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements.
Treatments to ease muscle tightness (such as onabotulinumtoxinA or Botox) can be used to improve functionality and reduce discomfort or other signs. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted or to correct spinal issues like an unusually bent back, especially in severe cases of CP.
Speech therapists can help children learn to communicate and help parents improve their child's communication skills. Therapy for recreation lets children participate in fun activities that promote social interaction, self-esteem, and motor skill development.
Support
The right support can make a huge difference. Parents and children who suffer from cerebral palsy are able to find a family of people who can relate to their experiences via meetings in their local area or through an online groups. There are many groups that hold fundraising events that help raise awareness and funds for the disorder.
Teachers can aid children with cerebral palsy in school. They can help students who are unable to attend class due to doctor's visits or taking medicine. They can also provide accommodations for students in the classroom such as allowing students to travel between classes, take exams or for doctor visits.
Adults with CP might seek out advice from an occupational therapist regarding independence, such as housing as well as finding a job and receiving benefits. They can also talk to their doctor about whether or not 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. It is available to residents in Michigan and permits people to search for doctors based on their insurance company.
Legal Questions
Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you receive a fair settlement from medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process requires gathering more evidence that the doctors and medical facilities accountable for the birth injury suffered by your child committed malpractice, causing brain damage and cerebral palsy.
cerebral palsy law firm detroit is a means to obtain financial compensation for the loss suffered by your family as well as future expenses that are anticipated. It's also about creating changes and other guidelines to prevent similar injuries from happening to other children in the future.
Parents worry that filing a medical malpractice suit can make them appear greedy or that they don't appreciate their child for what they are. But the truth is that the cost of caring for a person suffering from CP could be in the millions.
Get a medical malpractice lawyer on your side as soon as you can. The earlier you file your claim, the more favorable. Every state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer can explain the laws applicable to your specific area, as well as what you need to do next.