1. What is cerebral palsy? 

Cerebral palsy is a term for a wide range of physical disabilities caused by damage to the brain during its development. It is a permanent condition characterized by disorders of movement or posture.

2. What causes cerebral palsy? 

Brain injuries occurring during fetal development or near the time of birth are the main culprit of cerebral palsy. It may also occur during early infancy due to cerebral injury caused by illnesses (encephalitis, meningitis, and herpes simplex infections), head injury that results in subdural hematoma, blood vessel injuries, and many others.

3. Is there a cure for cerebral palsy? 

Unfortunately, no. The damage to the brain caused by cerebral palsy is irreparable but therapy can encourage the brain to develop alternative pathways.

4. Can cerebral palsy be prevented? 

Cerebral palsy may be prevented. Pregnant women that test Rh negative may be immunized to avoid bad effects of blood incompatibility with the child. Exchange transfusion can also prevent blood incompatibility with the newborn. If a child has jaundice, phototherapy (medical use of ultraviolet light) can prevent brain damage. Preventing viral infections, radiation exposure, drug abuse, anemia, and malnutrition in pregnant women is important. Equally important is protecting children from brain trauma after birth.

5. What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy? 

Symptoms are usually evident before age two, and in severe cases may appear as early as three months. Symptoms include:

· Seizures · Muscle contractions · Difficulty sucking or feeding · Irregular breathing · Delayed development of motor skills, such as reading, sitting, rolling, crawling, walking; motor mental retardation · Speech, visual, hearing abnormalities · Spasticity · Progressive joint contractures · Limited range of motion · Peg teeth

6. When should I see a lawyer? 

As soon as you realize you may be the victim of medical malpractice, you should seek the assistance of an experienced Cerebral Palsy attorney. It is advisable to gather facts and evidence early. Additionally, there is also a "statute of limitations" for filing medical malpractice claims.

7. What are the treatment options for a child with Cerebral Palsy? 

There are numerous treatment options available to people with Cerebral Palsy. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy all play an important role in the long-term well being of a person with Cerebral Palsy. Other therapies include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, BOTOX injections and sometimes surgical options enhance mobility in a person with Cerebral Palsy.