CP describes a life-long disability caused by damage to parts of the brain linked to the development of movement and posture.
The primary causes include:-
- Infection in the early part of pregnancy
- Lack of oxygen to the brain
- Abnormal brain development
- On rare occasions, a genetic link.
Whilst CP can be caused non-negligently, it can be caused as a result of an injury to the brain before, during or after birth. At Rothera Bray we work with families who have been impacted as a result of negligent care during pregnancy, childbirth or the first few days of a newborn baby’s life.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is a complex neurological condition which can present in many different ways and with differing severity. The most common types are:-
- Spastic cerebral palsy – sufferers have tight and stiff muscles, this type of CP restricts movement and can cause painful spasms. This is the most common form of CP.
- Dyskinetic cerebral palsy – this leaves sufferers with uncontrolled or involuntary muscle contractions which may impact speech, the ability to stand and sit upright.
- Ataxic cerebral palsy – with impact upon spatial awareness and balance throughout the body it inhibits the ability to properly control muscle groups during movement which can result in impaired speech or language and an unsteady gait.
There is no cure for CP and in some people the condition is barely noticeable, whilst others need specialist care and support throughout their life.
When a brain injury has caused the CP, there can also be other health issues including learning and communication difficulties, epilepsy, hearing and visual impairment, feeding and toileting difficulties, trouble sleeping and behavioural issues.
Medical Negligence Claims and Cerebral Palsy
If families wish to pursue a clinical negligence claim it is necessary to prove that the cerebral palsy was caused as a result of poor medical care that fell below acceptable standards. This may be as a result of the failure to deliver baby when there were clear indications to do so.
- Babies may suffer stress if the umbilical cord wraps around the neck or if baby becomes stuck in the pelvis. This can result in a lack of oxygen being supplied to the baby by the umbilical cord.
- Delays in delivery can lead to the unborn child becoming deprived of oxygen which may lead to brain damage, which in turn may lead to cerebral palsy.
- Negligence may also happen in the days after birth due to a failure to diagnose a treat jaundice, low blood sugar as a result of difficulty feeding the baby, and these may also lead to brain damage and/or cerebral palsy.
How can Rothera Bray Solicitors assist?
Medical negligence can have a devastating impact upon families. At Rothera Bray we have experience in representing patients with claims and successfully achieving answers about what has happened, and compensation settlements leading to a more secure and comfortable future for those living with the after effects of such negligence.
If you have concerns about the treatment that you, or a loved one has received, please contact us on 03456 465 465 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk
Support available:
At Rothera Bray we are passionate about directing those affected by clinical negligence to additional and focused support. This can help you live with injury, support you with your emotional and mental health and/or come to terms with the death of a loved one.
Some of the organisations relevant to this story are listed below:
Cerebral Palsy:
Support for those with a baby/child who is unwell or with a disability:
Disclaimer: This blog is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice please contact us on 03456 465 465 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk to get tailored advice specific to your circumstances from our qualified lawyers.
