3 Potential Forms of Cerebral Palsy Treatment

As birth injury lawyers, one of the most common conditions we deal with on a regular basis is cerebral palsy. Most people probably know there is currently no cure for a cerebral palsy diagnosis, which is one of the reasons why getting the right legal protection for a diagnosis caused by medical malpractice or negligence is so important. Otherwise, you’ll be left footing a lifetime of bills for cerebral palsy treatment that could be crippling to any non-millionaire.

Overall, about seven out of every 1,000 babies will be affected by some birth injury and cerebral palsy — the most common motor disability found in children — is one of the most serious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 323 children in the U.S. have cerebral palsy.

While there is no cure, there are various forms of cerebral palsy treatment that can help make life easier and more comfortable for those suffering from it. Here are three cerebral palsy treatments that the compensation from a successful lawsuit can help you afford.

1. Physical Therapy and Exercise: One of the best and most basic forms of cerebral palsy treatment comes in the form of actual physical therapy and activities to help with exercise and muscle development. While it may be impossible to cure, motor function and mobility can be improved with professional help.
2. Medication and Treatment: Certain medications and prescription drugs can help to minimize complications and control some cerebral palsy symptoms. Muscle relaxants such as Baclofen and Diazepam can help to control and reduce muscle spasms and anticonvulsants are often prescribed to minimize potential seizures. Laxatives are also a common mild treatment option as many people with CP also battle constipation.
3. Surgery: Although it is a bit more rare, there are some surgical operations that can help CP patients. Lengthening tendons, attaching tendons to a different part of the bone, and selective dorsal rhizotomy are all procedures that may help reduce muscle spasms and stiffness by allowing the patient more flexibility/control.

Cerebral palsy is an incredibly difficult condition to deal with, but with treatment options like these available, the field is improving.