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How to File a Cerebral Palsy Case Cerebral Palsy is a permanent condition that requires medical attention. Children with CP often visit a pediatrician along with a physical rehabilitation and medicine specialist. Their doctors will take an examination of their medical history, perform thorough physical examinations and conduct tests like an MRI or CT scan. A reputable cerebral palsy lawyer can help families seek an equitable amount of compensation for their child's lifelong needs. Contact us now to schedule an appointment for a no-cost case review. Diagnosis Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that affects posture, movement, coordination and balance. It is caused by damage or abnormalities in parts of the brain that control the movement of muscles. It usually occurs before, during or shortly after birth. cerebral palsy attorneys oklahoma city can diagnose cerebral palsy on a child's symptom and medical history, physical examination milestones, growth and the results of diagnostic tests. They may refer an infant, toddler, or child to specialists such as pediatric orthopedists, neurologists, and physiatrists. Tests of urine, blood and skin might also be requested. Babies born with CP typically have delays in developmental milestones and have stiff muscles and overexaggerated reflexes that aren't seen in normal infants. They also might have low Apgar scores, which may indicate oxygen deprivation. The condition can be difficult to recognize in babies who are still developing and a definitive diagnosis is usually made by age 2. The sooner a child's illness is recognized, the better treatment will be. Many families are able to look for support groups, organizations and counseling services for their children. Signs and symptoms Symptoms of cerebral palsy appear in early childhood and result from damage to the brain area that controls movement and posture. The damage is irreparable and can affect body movements and muscle coordination. Children who suffer from dyskinetic cerebral palsy exhibit jerky, uncontrolled movements of the hands, feet and arms. They might also have a hard time reaching, picking up objects and coloring with crayons. They might snore or have difficulty maintaining their balance. The most commonly used type of CP is ataxic. It causes poor coordination and clumsy movement. People with hypotonic CP have a low level of muscle tone and their legs and arms move effortlessly and look like those of an Rag doll. Doctors typically diagnose a child with CP during the first 2 years of life, unless it is not severe, in which case they could diagnose when the child is four or five years old. To reduce the risk of developing CP, women should get vaccinations prior to conception against diseases that could cause brain damage in a fetus, including rubella and German measles. Prenatal care is essential for all pregnant mothers to prevent complications such as premature birth and insufficient weight at birth. Treatment Cerebral Palsy can result from anything that interferes in brain development, including 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 weight are at increased risk of cerebral palsy. Inflammation caused by rubella (German measles), herpes, cytomegalovirus and pregnant fever can cause damage to the nervous system that is developing. Each individual's CP treatment plan is unique to each. A pediatric specialist rehabilitation, physical medicine doctor or neurologist should oversee the medical care and formulate an appropriate treatment plan that addresses specific symptoms and requirements. To improve functionality or alleviate pain, medications to reduce muscle tightness may be used. Surgery can be used to lengthen muscles that are stiff and contracted, or to correct spinal issues like an abnormally curved back, in severe cases of CP. Speech therapists can help children to develop communication skills and also teach parents how to enhance their child's communication. Recreational therapy involves children in activities that are fun to encourage social interaction, self esteem and motor skill development. Support Finding the right support can make all the difference. Parents and children with cerebral palsy can join a family of people who can relate to their experiences via a local meeting or online groups. There are many groups that hold fundraisers that raise awareness and funds for the condition. Teachers can assist children with cerebral palsy in school. They can plan ahead for times when students will miss class due to doctor visits or medication. They can also offer accommodation in the classroom for things like providing extra time between classes or for taking tests. Adults suffering from CP can seek advice from an occupational therapist about independence, which includes housing, getting a job and benefits. They can also talk to their doctor to find out whether their medications are effective and what could cause them to feel worse. The Cerebral Palsy Research and Clinical Center of Michigan has an inventory of local doctors who specialize in this condition. It is available to people who live in Michigan, and it allows people to search for doctors based on their insurance company. Legal Questions Your cerebral palsy lawyer will help you get a fair settlement from the medical professionals responsible for your child's injuries. The legal process involves gathering additional evidence to prove that the physicians and medical facilities involved in your child's birth injury committed acts of negligence that caused brain injuries and resulting in cerebral palsy. A legal claim seeks monetary compensation for the losses your family has experienced and anticipated future expenses. It's also about making changes and further guidelines to prevent similar injuries from happening to children of other children in the future. Some parents are afraid that suing for medical malpractice will make them appear greedy, or appear to accept the child they have. The cost of caring for a CP patient could be in the millions. Get a medical malpractice lawyer on your side as soon as you can. The sooner you file your case, the better. Each state has its own statute of limitations. A lawyer will explain the laws applicable to your state and tell you what you should do next.