Addressing Common Misconceptions About Cerebral Palsy

 Posted on August 31, 2021 in Cerebral Palsy

As a new parent, the news that your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) can be unexpected and concerning, especially if you are not familiar with the nature of the condition. You may have many questions about what caused the condition, how it will affect your child’s life, and what you can do to help. It is important to educate yourself about CP so that you understand your options for making sure your child gets the assistance he or she needs. Here, we address some of the common misconceptions about CP to help you develop a more accurate perspective.

Misconception: CP Affects Everyone the Same Way

It is important not to jump to conclusions about the effects of your child’s cerebral palsy based on other cases of the condition that you have seen or heard about. While all cases of CP are caused by brain damage before, during, or soon after childbirth, there are several different types of CP, and the extent to which the condition affects a person’s abilities can vary significantly. Your child’s diagnosis does not necessarily mean that he or she will be unable to walk, speak, or have normal intellectual development, but it is important to pay close attention to the details of the diagnosis so that you understand your child’s specific diagnosis and the likely effects.

Misconception: CP is a Genetic Condition

Cerebral palsy cannot be passed on genetically from a parent to a child, nor can it be transmitted from person to person in any other way. Rather, it is usually the result of complications surrounding the birthing process that prevent sufficient flow of oxygen to an infant’s brain, or a traumatic brain injury during childbirth. Determining what may have caused your child’s condition can help you consider your options for seeking financial assistance.

Misconception: CP is not Treatable

There is no cure for cerebral palsy, so you can expect the condition to affect your child throughout the entirety of his or her life. However, CP can be treated in a number of ways to help your child manage the condition and improve his or her quality of life. Your child may benefit from muscular treatments, medication, assistive devices, and various forms of physical and mental therapy.

Misconception: CP is not Preventable

While certain factors like premature birth or a mother’s health conditions can increase the risk that a child is born with cerebral palsy, doctors and healthcare professionals can often take steps to mitigate the risks and ensure that a child is born safely and in good health. If there is evidence that your child developed CP because a doctor failed to take reasonable steps to ensure a safe childbirth, or that a doctor’s actions caused the brain damage resulting in CP, you may have grounds for a medical negligence claim.

Contact an Illinois Birth Injury Lawyer

If you have additional questions or concerns about your child’s CP diagnosis, the attorneys at Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. can help. We will work to connect you with the resources you need and help you determine whether compensation may be available through a medical malpractice claim. For a free consultation with a Chicago birth injury attorney, call us today at 312-462-4200.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/cp/facts.html

http://cerebralpalsygroup.com/cerebral-palsy/myths/