5 Reasons Cerebral Palsy Lawyers Can Be A Beneficial Thing

cerebral palsy law firm mcallen For Cerebral Palsy Many medications aid people with cerebral palsy decrease muscle spasticity and improve flexibility. But certain medicines may cause undesirable side effects and could present safety risks, particularly when used for long periods of time. Surgery is not a cure for CP however it can to improve mobility and decrease pain. It also helps reduce seizures, which are life-threatening to people with CP. Diagnosis Cerebral Palsy is a class of nonprogressive disorders that affect posture and movement as well as the muscles in the legs and arms. The condition can be seen in infancy or in the early years of childhood and is caused by a defect or an abnormality within the brain. The injury could have occurred in the womb, or shortly after the baby's birth. However, doctors might not be aware of the exact reason behind the condition. The doctor will examine your child to determine if he or she has CP. The doctor will administer the baby a physical test to assess the strength of his or her muscles, reflexes, and movements. They will also track your baby's progress over time to determine if he's meeting the milestones. If a doctor suspects something is not right, he could order an imaging test. An MRI is the most common test, which uses magnetic fields and produces detailed images of your baby’s brain. The MRI can detect changes in CP in the brain of your child. Another alternative is an ultrasound which uses sound waves to create images of your baby's head and other organs. This test is more suitable for infants who are still very young however it may not be as effective in diagnosing issues that are associated with CP. A doctor might refer your child, addition to an MRI and a pediatric physiatrist (a doctor who has specialized training on pediatric diseases that affect the spine, muscles and nerves). These specialists will provide a more accurate diagnose and create a plan for treatment for your child. Treatment Every child's CP is unique and requires an individual health care plan. Your family is likely to be working with a group of specialists, including a neurosurgeon, pediatric neurologist, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, and a child developmental specialist. These experts will create a treatment team that includes your entire family and will oversee your child's progress. Doctors are able to diagnose CP by looking at the child's symptoms as well as their medical history. They may also conduct a physical examination to check for indications of the condition. They will look for signs of muscle tightness and weakness, difficulty walking or moving in a straight line, speech and intelligence issues and abnormal reflexes. Doctors can be able to identify that your child has CP if certain risk factors are present. For example, if your child was born in the breech position, or has difficulties in labor and delivery or has a difficult labor and delivery, they are more likely to suffer from CP. The risk of having cerebral palsy is also higher for babies younger than their gestational age. The risk of developing cerebral palsy is increased by complications during labor and delivery. These include infections, high fevers and other conditions which affect the flow of oxygen to brain. Medications can help improve your child's ability to move and lessen pain and stiffness in muscles. They can be taken orally, injected into muscles or in the spinal fluid that surrounds your cord. The drugs can be used to treat seizures and other ailments such as epilepsy frequently associated with cerebral palsy. Preventing CP Although there's no way to avoid the majority of cases of CP that are linked to genetics however, you can take steps to lower the risk. If you can, take advantage of regular prenatal care. Address any health issues prior to pregnancy. Make sure you are current on your vaccinations during pregnancy. Certain infections, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus — are linked to an increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants. Babies with CP are typically slow to learn to sit, roll over and crawl as well as walk. They might have a low muscle tone (hypotonia), making them appear relaxed or floppy. Or they might have high muscle tone (hypertonia) which makes their bodies feel rigid or stiff. They could show signs of speech problems or seizures, or may favor one side of their body. Around 75% of those with CP have spastic CP which causes muscles to become tight and stiff. Some have only a handful of affected muscles, whereas others suffer from more severe spasticity that affects their entire muscles which include those around their face and mouth. This type of CP is known as spastic hemoplegia and can lead to a curved spine (scoliosis) or difficulty swallowing. Dyskinetic CP is a different kind of CP. It can cause movements that are slow and twisted, or fast and jerky. It could make your limbs or face appear as if they're writhing, and you might drool. Some people who suffer from CP have multiple forms of CP however, each type is distinct. Living with CP Cerebral Palsy affects everyone in a different way, from mild to severe. Some people with CP require only minimal assistance, and others have trouble moving around and must use a wheel chair. In severe cases, CP can lead to complete body paralysis, also known as spastic quadriplegia. Children suffering from CP are able to benefit from occupational, physical and speech therapy to improve posture, balance and mobility. Surgery may be needed to correct problems in their joints or bones. Hearing loss, fatigue, pain, and excessive drooling are all possible symptoms. Certain patients with CP suffer from depression which is between three and four times more common than in the general population. Many adults with CP reside at home, take part in activities with the community and receive personal assistance. Some may require accommodations, but they can find employment. People who suffer from CP often face premature ageing as their bodies struggle to handle the extra stress and strain. A person with CP can live a fulfilled life even with severe symptoms. They can have family, friends and even a job. They can also join support groups, which can help them connect with others suffering from CP and locate local resources. Financial assistance is available from foundations and various organizations to alleviate the burden on the family, allowing them to concentrate on receiving quality care. If your child's cerebral palsy was caused by medical negligence from an healthcare professional, you may be entitled to compensation. Request a free case evaluation now to find out if qualify.