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What causes cerebral palsy?

On Behalf of | May 24, 2023 | Birth Injuries |

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is estimated that around 1 in every 345 children in the United States has cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the brain before, during or after birth. 

Birth injuries are a leading cause of cerebral palsy, and parents often wonder how to know if their baby has cerebral palsy due to birth injuries. This article will discuss the causes of cerebral palsy, how to diagnose cerebral palsy and the treatment options available.

The most common cause is a medical mistake

The primary cause of CP during birth is insufficient oxygen supply to the baby’s brain. This often has to do with mistakes that are made by the hospital or physician during the baby’s delivery.

However, the medical facility cannot be held liable if the condition resulted from infection during pregnancy or genetic disorders. Some other factors that increase the chance of CP in a child include:

  • Low birth weight
  • Multiple births (twins, triplets or more)
  • Infertility treatment 
  • Thyroid problems in the mother

What are the treatment options for cerebral palsy?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are treatment options available that can help manage the disorder’s symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life. Treatment options may include:

  • Physical therapy to improve movement and flexibility
  • Occupational therapy to improve fine motor skills and daily living activities
  • Speech therapy to improve communication skills
  • Medications to manage muscle spasms and other symptoms
  • Surgery to correct orthopedic problems or to improve mobility

Ultimately, cerebral palsy can have devastating consequences for your child and your family. It’s always wisest to seek informed legal guidance about your case.