Cleveland Cerebral Palsy Lawyers

Helping Families in Cleveland, OH

Families dealing with cerebral palsy often find themselves facing emotional, physical, and financial strains. The cost of medical treatments, ongoing therapy, adaptive equipment, and specialized education can quickly become overwhelming. Our legal team at Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP understands the multifaceted challenges associated with cerebral palsy and is committed to helping you secure the compensation needed to provide the best possible care for your loved one.

Contactour firm at (216) 600-0114to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with our compassionate and knowledgeable cerebral palsy attorneys in Cleveland.

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects a person's motor skills, muscle tone, and movement. It is often caused by brain damage during pregnancy, childbirth, or shortly after delivery. While the condition is not progressive, individuals with cerebral palsy may face lifelong challenges, requiring extensive medical care, therapy, and support.

Common types of cerebral palsy include:

• Spastic Cerebral Palsy: Characterized by muscle stiffness and difficulty controlling movements. May affect one side of the body (spastic hemiplegia), both legs (spastic diplegia), or all four limbs (spastic quadriplegia).
• Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: Involves uncontrollable, involuntary movements and may affect the entire body or only specific parts. Individuals may have difficulty sitting or walking due to uncontrolled writhing movements.
• Ataxic Cerebral Palsy: Affects balance and coordination, making movements shaky and unsteady. Individuals may experience difficulty with tasks requiring precise control, such as writing or buttoning a shirt.
• Mixed Type: Some individuals may exhibit a combination of spastic, dyskinetic, or ataxic features, leading to a mixed type of cerebral palsy.

Medical Malpractice Causing Cerebral Palsy

Not all cases of cerebral palsy are preventable. However, many are the result of medical malpractice during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or neonatal care. When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to follow accepted medical standards, the consequences can be life-altering.

Common forms of medical negligence that may lead to cerebral palsy include:

• Failure to monitor fetal distress: Ignoring abnormal fetal heart rate patterns or signs of oxygen deprivation
• Delayed C-sections: Failing to perform an emergency cesarean section when complications arise
• Improper use of delivery tools: Misuse of forceps or vacuum extractors
• Untreated maternal infections: Failing to diagnose or treat infections that affect the baby’s brain
• Medication errors: Improper administration of drugs during labor or delivery
• Birth asphyxia: Inadequate oxygen supply due to medical errors

Our Cleveland cerebral palsy attorney can investigate your child’s medical records, consult with medical experts, and determine whether negligence played a role in the diagnosis.

Short- & Long-Term Impact of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy affects far more than physical movement. The condition can influence nearly every aspect of a child’s life and place a significant burden on families.

Short-Term Effects

In infancy and early childhood, cerebral palsy may cause:

• Feeding and swallowing difficulties
• Delayed speech and motor development
• Frequent medical appointments and therapies
• Early surgical interventions

Long-Term Effects

As a child grows, cerebral palsy can lead to lifelong challenges, including:

• Chronic pain and muscle contractures
• Mobility limitations requiring assistive devices
• Learning disabilities or intellectual impairments
• Seizure disorders
• Need for personal care assistance into adulthood

The financial impact can be substantial. Families often face ongoing costs for medical treatment, physical therapy, occupational therapy, specialized education, home modifications, and adaptive equipment.

How is Cerebral Palsy Treated?

The optimal treatment plan varies based on the severity and specific challenges faced by each person. A multidisciplinary approach involving medical, therapeutic, and supportive interventions is often recommended.

Here are some key components of the treatment for cerebral palsy:

• Medications: Medications may be prescribed to manage spasticity, alleviate pain, or control seizures that can be associated with cerebral palsy. Muscle relaxants, anti-spasticity medications, and botulinum toxin injections are examples of drugs that may be used to address muscle stiffness and spasms.
• Orthopedic Interventions: Orthopedic surgeries, such as tendon lengthening or orthopedic corrections, may be recommended to improve joint alignment, mobility, and overall function.
• Seizure Management: If an individual with cerebral palsy experiences seizures, anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed to manage and control seizure activity.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapists work with individuals with cerebral palsy to improve muscle strength, coordination, balance, and mobility. Customized exercises and stretching routines are designed to address specific physical challenges and prevent complications such as joint contractures.
• Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists focus on enhancing daily living skills, fine motor skills, and independence. They may recommend adaptive equipment and strategies to improve functionality.
• Speech and Language Therapy: Speech therapists help individuals with cerebral palsy improve communication skills, including speech, language, and swallowing. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices may be introduced to facilitate communication.
• Recreational Therapy: Recreational therapy aims to improve recreational and leisure activities, promoting socialization and overall well-being.
• Aquatic Therapy: Water-based therapy can be beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy, offering a supportive environment that reduces the impact on joints while promoting movement and flexibility.
• Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, and braces may be recommended to enhance mobility and provide support for individuals with cerebral palsy.
• Powered mobility devices can offer greater independence for those with mobility limitations.
• Communication Devices: Augmentative and alternative communication devices, such as speech-generating devices or communication apps, can assist individuals with communication challenges.
• Adaptive Equipment: Customized tools and equipment, such as modified keyboards, utensils, and seating systems, can help individuals with cerebral palsy perform daily activities more independently.
• Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): For children with cerebral palsy, IEPs are developed to address their unique learning needs and provide necessary accommodations and support in the educational setting.
• Special Education Services: Access to special education services, including physical therapy and speech therapy within the school environment, helps promote academic success and social integration.
• Psychological Counseling: Individuals with cerebral palsy and their families may benefit from psychological counseling to address emotional and psychological challenges associated with the condition.
• Support Groups: Support groups provide a platform for individuals and families to connect, share experiences, and receive emotional support from others facing similar challenges.

Cerebral Palsy FAQs

Is cerebral palsy always caused by medical malpractice?

No. Some cases result from unavoidable complications or genetic factors. However, many cases are linked to preventable medical errors, which may form the basis of a legal claim.

How long do I have to file a cerebral palsy lawsuit in Ohio?

Ohio has specific statutes of limitations for medical malpractice and birth injury cases. These deadlines can be complex, especially when minors are involved. Speaking with a Cleveland cerebral palsy attorney as soon as possible is essential.

What if my child was diagnosed years after birth?

Delayed diagnosis does not necessarily prevent you from filing a claim. An attorney can review the timeline and determine whether your case is still eligible.

Do I need proof of negligence before contacting a lawyer?

No. Your attorney will gather evidence, consult experts, and determine whether malpractice occurred.

Why Choose Us?

At Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP, we bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Our team of dedicated attorneys has a proven track record of success in handling cerebral palsy cases. We understand the nuances of these cases, including the medical complexities, and we are well-versed in the legal strategies needed to secure favorable outcomes.

We recognize the emotional toll that cerebral palsy can take on families. Our approach is rooted in compassion and understanding. We work closely with our clients, taking the time to listen to their stories, concerns, and goals. This client-centric approach allows us to tailor our legal strategies to meet the unique needs of each family we represent.

Call (216) 600-0114or fill out our online contact formto learn how we can help your child.