Myths About Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a complex condition, and people often misconstrue or misunderstand some of the causes, effects, and symptoms of the condition. They mistake some common misconceptions of CP and take them for truth. While they are often based on truth, here are a few myths about cerebral palsy that you'll want to better understand so you are able to discern fact from fiction.

Myth 1: It's Genetic

Cerebral palsy does have some effects that are similar to genetic conditions, such as cognitive impairment, but it is not genetic. It is the result of baby brain damage, not any sort of genetic abnormality. The trauma to the brain caused by this condition never actually heals, so all that can be done is to provide treatment to lessen the severity of the symptoms.

Myth 2: It's Not Treatable

While the actual brain injuries that cause cerebral palsy are not treatable, many of the symptoms are treatable. In fact, there are new treatments being developed all the time. Doctors use a combination of injections, oral medications and, in some cases, treatments involving temperature to help loosen spasmodic muscles and to offer the sufferer more control over their motor skills.

Myth 3: It's Completely Debilitating

Cerebral palsy is sometimes completely debilitating, but this is not always the case. In fact, some people with cerebral palsy only have symptoms that manifest once in a while. For instance, some people have painful muscle cramping that might leave them bedridden for a while but, most of the time, they will be able to get around as well as anyone else. The same is true of cognitive impairments. Some people suffer significant cognitive impairment, and other people are just as intelligent and capable as anyone else.
Having a child with cerebral palsy doesn't automatically mean that you're going to end up paying tens of thousands of dollars every year for various forms of assistive care, but the treatments can be very high. This is the reason that people sometimes file a lawsuit if they believe the child's injuries were caused by the negligence of the doctor, nursing staff, or healthcare facility. When medical negligence is to blame, the idea that the parents should be burdened with the costs of their child's medical care is untenable.
Speaking with an attorney is the best way to determine whether or not you should consider a lawsuit. They cannot promise that you'll win, but they may be able to determine whether or not it's worth it to pursue legal action. They may be able to get you a jury award or an out of court settlement from the healthcare provider responsible for your child's injury.