Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects the part of a child’s brain that controls muscle tone. There are seven different types of the condition, each of which depends on the limitations of the child and which body parts are affected. The medical condition can occur when the baby sustains an injury before, during, or after birth. While cerebral palsy can be a confusing diagnosis, there have been instances where medical negligence contributed to the child’s injury and subsequent disorder.
The seven different types of cerebral palsy in Oklahoma include:
- Ataxic: This is the least commonly diagnosed type of cerebral palsy. The child’s motor skills will suffer and they may have trouble with tasks such as tying their shoes, cutting with scissors, or buttoning their shirt. Uncontrolled shaking after a voluntary movement may also occur. For instance, if a child reaches for an apple, the arm or wrist may begin to shake and worsen as the child gets closer to the object.
- Athetoid Dyskinetic: The child will have problems with their muscles and may experience tightness which may present trouble walking, sitting, or speaking. They may drool as controlling the facial muscles can be difficult. Children who are diagnosed with this kind of cerebral palsy oftentimes have normal intelligence.
- Congenital: This type of palsy is not inherited by the child’s parents or caused by healthcare professional error. The defect was developed in the womb during development.
- Erb’s: This type of palsy is attributed mainly to error and occurs when the nerves in the brachial plexus stretch or tear. As a result, an affected child will have no muscle control or feeling in their arm.
- Hyptonic: The baby will have muscle control issues early on in life and may have delayed development issues.
- Mixed: Some children may exhibit symptoms of multiple types of cerebral palsy. This is a common diagnosis.
- Spastic: This is the most common type of diagnosed cerebral palsy. The child’s muscles may be jerky and rigid and getting around can be difficult.
If your child was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you believe that medical negligence contributed to the injury, the dedicated Oklahoma City cerebral palsy attorneys at The Maples Law Firm can help. Call 1-888-226-6159 for a free consultation and to learn about your rights and options.
