The birth of a child is supposed to be a time of happiness. Yet, all too often the birthing process goes wrong and children wind up seriously injured. Though sometimes these harms are so severe they are immediately obvious, others may require an attentive eye to catch. However, all birth injuries, whether seemingly serious or minor, can have a significant impact on a child’s life. Therefore, parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms of some of the more common types of birth injuries.
Amongst these is cerebral palsy, which is caused by abnormal brain development or brain damage that inhibits the child’s ability to control his or her muscles. This condition, which affects 1 out of every 323 children, can make it difficult for a child to walk, talk, and live what many consider a normal life, instead leaving them with a permanent disability. But what are the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy?
There are many. In children under the age of six months, a child might feel stiff or floppy, or his or her head might fall backwards as if the neck is having trouble supporting it. Children over the age of six months might be unable to roll over, bring his or her hands to his or her mouth, and might be unable to bring his or her hands together. In those over one year old, cerebral palsy might be evidenced by an inability to crawl and stand.
In many cases, cerebral palsy requires extensive long-term care, resulting in excessive medical expenses. Fortunately, those who have suffered a serious birth injuries or brain injury at the hands of a negligent medical professional may be able to recover compensation through a medical malpractice lawsuit. By speaking with an experienced Oregon attorney, families undeservedly struck by this medical condition can learn of their legal rights and how best to act upon them.
Source: CDC, “What You Need to Know About Cerebral Palsy,” accessed on Aug. 15, 2014