The Cochran Firm Legal Blog

Cerebral palsy is a general term describing a number of different disorders affecting the brain and resulting in a loss of movement and muscle coordination. Cerebral palsy can occur during pregnancy, during birth, and even after birth (up to approximately age three).

The most common signs of cerebral palsy include:

Ataxia – a lack of coordination of muscles
Spasticity – spontaneous contraction and tightening of muscles
Walking with one foot dragging
Walking on toes

Cerebral palsy cannot be cured, but there is treatment available to help children affected live normal, productive lives. The earlier the treatment is started, the better the recovery will be. Treatment includes:

Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Surgery
Drugs to control seizures or muscle spasms
The use of braces
The use of wheelchairs

The effects cerebral palsy can have on children vary. One child with cerebral palsy might not have the ability to walk and need lifelong care, while another might have a slightly awkward walk but need no care. With the proper treatment, many children who are affected with cerebral palsy go on to live normal adult lives.

If you or someone you love would like to learn more about cerebral palsy as a result of a medical error during childbirth, please contact the attorneys at The Cochran Firm, with offices nationwide, today.

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