Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition resulting in abnormal movement or a lack of muscle control. Initial symptoms of this condition may be subtle, especially in the first six months of age.
Cerebral Palsy symptoms to look for at six months of age include babies who do not seem to move one side of their body, babies who move themselves without using their feet, and babies who have trouble standing. Some other symptoms to watch out for include exceptional rigidity or “floppiness,” crossed eyes, staying in abnormal positions, seizures, unresponsiveness, and apparent deafness. As the baby gets older, one year and beyond, Cerebral Palsy symptoms become more pronounced. The child may have trouble standing or may be missing other developmental milestones.
Cerebral Palsy results when something goes wrong in the development of the fetus or the birth process. Sadly, a birth injury may result from negligence by the doctor or the medical staff. A child neurologist or developmental pediatrician must examine the child to make a final diagnosis.
Remember, if your otherwise healthy baby has symptoms of cerebral palsy after a questionable medical decision was made, you may have rights to compensation for medical treatment and pain and suffering. For more information on your legal options, speak to a cerebral palsy lawyer.