Cerebral palsy refers to a group of neurological conditions which affect the ability to control muscles and therefore movement. It is caused when the brain develops abnormally, or when a developing brain suffers an injury. Unfortunately, the abnormal development or brain damage can’t be repaired, and the impairments suffered are permanent.
There are two types of cerebral palsy. Congenital cerebral palsy occurs when damage to the brain occurs either before or during birth. Most cases of cerebral palsy are cases of congenital cerebral palsy. Often it’s not possible to pinpoint the specific cause of congenital cerebral palsy.
Some cases of cerebral palsy, however, occur after birth – more specifically, more than 28 days after birth. This type of cerebral palsy is called acquired cerebral palsy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following are some of the causes of acquired cerebral palsy:
- Infections of the brain. Examples of infections that affect the brain are meningitis and encephalitis.
- Injury to the brain. Common causes of injuries that cause head trauma and damage to the brain include motor vehicle accidents and child abuse.
- Blood flow problems in the brain. Problems with blood flow to the brain can occur in a number of ways, such as stroke, blood clotting problems, heart defects and sickle cell disease.
To reduce the risk that a child will develop acquired cerebral palsy, parents should investigate vaccinations that may be available for certain brain infections, and provide proper safety restraints when their child is riding in a car or other motor vehicle.
If someone you love suffers from cerebral palsy as a result of an accident, Bradley I. Kramer and his experienced legal team are here to help you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.