Births | Cerebral palsy

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Whilst finding out you’re expecting a child can be one of the most amazing and life changing moments of your life, it can also be one of the most worrying.. I now it was for me. For many women the idea of birth can be a terrifying prospect, not just for the pain of labour but for concerns about the health of their child. I never really thought of this but I know Warren was terrified something would go wrong.

 Complications during birth do occur but with modern medicine most serious issues can be rectified. However, occasionally these complications are not treated properly or medical negligence can occur and this can cause serious long-term affects to the child.

One such long-term issue is Cerebral Palsy. One in 400 children are born with Cerebral Palsy which is so sad, however it is important to note that only a very small proportion of these are judged to be the result of medical negligent.

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is the general term for a number of neurological conditions that affect movement and co-ordination.

Specifically, cerebral palsy is caused by a problem in the parts of the brain responsible for controlling muscles. The condition can occur if the brain develops abnormally or is damaged before, during or shortly after birth.

What are the symptoms of Cerebral Palsy?

The symptoms of cerebral palsy normally become apparent during the first three years of a child's life. They can include:

• Muscle stiffness or floppiness (Hypotonia)

• Muscle weakness

• Random and uncontrolled body movements

• Balance and co-ordination problems

These symptoms can affect different areas of the body and vary in severity from person to person. Some people only have minor problems, whereas others are severely disabled.

Many people with cerebral palsy also have a number of associated problems, including:

• Repeated fits or seizures

• Drooling problems and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)

• Some people with the condition may have communication and learning difficulties, although intelligence is often unaffected.

How Cerebral Palsy is treated?

Unfortunately there's no cure for cerebral palsy. However, there are various treatments available, which can treat many of its symptoms and help people with the condition to be as independent as possible.

These treatments include: 

• physiotherapy

• occupational therapy

• medication to relieve muscle stiffness and spasms

I think my child has Cerebral Palsy, what is the next step?

A child with cerebral palsy may be slower in achieving important developmental goals, such as learning to crawl, walk or speak. It is therefore important that you should see your GP if you have any concerns about your child’s development. 

If your child is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and it is thought that your child developed this from medical negligence then there is a chance that you may be entitled to compensation to help you and your child with the costs of ongoing care, therapies, accommodation and equipment. This can be an incredibly worrying time so ensuring that you are getting help through this process is essential. 

First4SeriousInjury are there to help you every step of the way, from helping you find out if you are entitled to compensation to guiding you through the claim. They also offer a no fuss, no-obligation service and no win, no fee agreement to ensure that the process is as stress-free as possible for you.

If you think you and your little one may be entitled to compensation then please contact First4SeriousInjury via their website or by calling them on 0808 163 5495.. 

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