Cerebral palsy is the most common childhood motor disability, with 1.5 to more than 4 cases per 1,000 births. Approximately 1 in 323 children has been diagnosed with CP. It is caused by abnormal development or damage to the areas of the brain controlling movement, balance, and posture. Most cases happen during pregnancy, but can also happen after delivery. The risk factors include:
- Premature birth
- Being a twin
- Infection during pregnancy
- Head trauma in the first few years of life
Cerebral palsy has two types:
- Congenital CP, related to brain damage before and during birth; risk factors include low birth weight, multiple births, premature birth, fertility treatments, infections of the mother during pregnancy, jaundice, the mother’s medical conditions (thyroid issues, seizures), and complications during delivery that disrupted the baby’s oxygen supply.
- Acquired CP, related to infection or head injury more than 28 days post birth; risk factors include premature birth, low birth weight, infection, and head trauma.
Symptoms of CP include stiff or weak muscles, low muscle tone, and poor coordination, as well as problems with vision, hearing, sensation, sitting up, or swallowing. Most babies with CP have trouble with motor functions such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling, walking, or talking, and usually are behind normal growth milestones.
If your infant was injured during delivery, you may have a medical malpractice case. Call the Law Offices of Mark L. Karno & Associates today at (312) 701-0090 to get a free evaluation of your case. All cases are taken on a contingency fee basis. We do not get paid until you do. Se habla español. Mowimy po Polsku.