Advocates and supporters of those with cerebral palsy celebrate Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month in March.
By wearing green bracelets, shirts, necklaces, and sometimes even face paint, people living with cerebral palsy and their allies educate the public about this motor disorder. In doing so, they strive to improve the healthcare system and job market for those with cerebral palsy.
In honor of this important global event, read on to learn seven fascinating facts about cerebral palsy.
1. Cerebral Palsy Is A Physical Disability Caused By Early Brain Injury
Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal brain development or damage.
The word cerebral relates to the brain, and palsy is defined as a weakness or difficulty using muscles. Thus, someone with cerebral palsy may have trouble with movement, coordination, muscle tone and control, reflexes, posture, and balance.
2. Cerebral Palsy Is Generally Considered A Birth Injury
The abnormal brain development or damage that leads to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy typically occurs:
- during pregnancy (e.g., an infection in utero)
- from birth complications (e.g., a doctor’s negligence disrupts oxygen flow)
- shortly after birth (e.g., the baby is denied what they need for proper brain development)
3. Cerebral Palsy Is The Most Common Lifelong Physical Disability
One in 345 babies is diagnosed with cerebral palsy in the U.S. It is not only the most common physical disability in childhood, but it’s also the most common lifelong physical disability in the world. In fact, in the U.S. alone, around 1 million people have cerebral palsy.
4. Cerebral Palsy Is Manageable
A variety of medical and therapeutic remedies can help you manage your child’s cerebral palsy. Certain medications may help relax your child’s muscles and/or reduce any related drooling.
Therapy will also be helpful to your child’s care. Physical therapy improves muscle control and strength, occupational therapy helps them gain independence in daily routines, and speech therapy helps them communicate clearly.
5. Early Detection Is Key
Learning the common early detection signs of cerebral palsy can significantly increase your child’s standard of living. Parents should be on the lookout for early signs of cerebral palsy, such as:
- excessive drooling
- feeling limp or “floppy” when being picked up or held
- difficulty sounding out words clearly
- the inability to pick up toys or grasp objects
- significant delay in crawling, reaching, standing, and walking
6. There Is No Known Cure For Cerebral Palsy
While there are abundant treatments, there is no known cure for cerebral palsy.
Despite being currently incurable, it is important to begin a treatment program as early as possible to improve your child’s comfort, mobility, and independence. A team of health professionals can work with your family to develop a plan that will help your child reach their full potential.
7. You May Be Able to Collect Compensation for Your Child’s Cerebral Palsy
If you suspect your child’s cerebral palsy was the direct result of a doctor’s or hospital’s negligence, you may be able to sue for compensation. Payment from a settlement or verdict will help you afford the various treatments that can significantly improve your child’s quality of life.
If your child has been recently diagnosed with CP, Talk to the lawyers at VSCP to determine if you could seek medical compensation.
