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What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy?

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2018 | Blog, Firm News |

Cerebral palsy is a condition many children are born with, either through genetics or through medical malpractice. Some estimates report that nearly 10,000 babies are born each year with cerebral palsy, and there are currently 500,000 children under 18 years of age who have the condition. 

There are various ways medical malpractice can increase the chances of a newborn developing cerebral palsy. A medical professional may not provide the mother with adequate prenatal information about what steps to take to give the fetus adequate nutrients. Something can occur during the actual birthing where the infant experiences a head injury during delivery. To increase the chances of a med mal lawsuit being successful, a mother will need to show the actions of a doctor caused the condition. This requires identifying the key symptom of cerebral palsy as soon as possible. 

Muscular symptoms

Children with cerebral palsy often have difficulty with simple movements. Some of the most common signs include:

  • Difficulty walking
  • Trouble with other bodily movements
  • Coordination issues
  • Overactive reflexes
  • Random muscle spasms
  • Involuntary movements
  • Paralysis in a certain area of the body

Babies may also experience muscle rigidity. Some will require even greater assistance with eating and walking because they lack the proper muscle coordination to handle these tasks on their own. 

Additional symptoms

There are many other signs a child suffers from cerebral palsy. Difficulty swallowing, constipation, seizures and speech disorders are just a few. In the event a parent suspects his or her child has cerebral palsy, it is paramount to see a medical professional right away for a diagnosis. One of these symptoms may not necessarily indicate cerebral palsy. It could be a result of something else entirely. However, it is critical to hold those responsible accountable if your child sustained an injury as a result of malpractice. The longer parents wait, the more difficult it becomes to prove the condition was due to a doctor’s negligence.