What is Ataxic Cerebral Palsy?
The group of chronic neurological disorders that hinder muscle control—also known as cerebral palsy—can be divided into three types: spastic, athetoid, and ataxic. Ataxic cerebral palsy comprises only 5-10% of all cerebral palsy cases and is caused by damage to the cerebellum, which controls body balance and coordination.
In ataxic cerebral palsy, the child’s movements appear floppy from loose muscle tone; children with this type of cerebral palsy tend to have balance challenges and an unsteady gait. Any intentional movement causes tremors, particularly when the child is trying to hold something small. Ataxic is the only type of cerebral palsy that can worsen as the child ages.
Treatment Options for Ataxic Cerebral Palsy
While there is no cure for cerebral palsy, symptoms can often be treated with various drugs, therapies, and/or surgeries. Treatment options for those with ataxic cerebral palsy include:
· Mechanical therapy—for support and mobility. Types of mechanical therapy include wheelchairs, braces, and walkers.
· Physical therapy—for balance and motor skills. May also include exercise to prevent muscle deterioration.
· Occupational therapy—to learn basic life skills aimed at helping children with cerebral palsy achieve some level of independence.
· Speech therapy—to develop speaking abilities and improve swallowing.
· Surgery—particularly orthopedic surgery which can improve balance
· Medications—For instance, Botox temporarily allows the muscles to stretch when injected into spastic muscles and infusions of Baclofen can reduce spasms by altering chemicals in the central nervous system.
· Alternative therapy—Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases the amount of oxygen in the cerebrospinal fluid to the oxygen-starved tissues in the brain, which reduces muscle spasms. Dolphin therapy, spacesuit therapy, and horseback riding are also proving effective in alleviating the symptoms of ataxic cerebral palsy.
Ataxic Cerebral Palsy & Medical Malpractice
Medical mistakes are responsible for numerous cases of cerebral palsy. Both mother and baby are vulnerable during pregnancy and delivery and this increases the effects of any errors made by the doctors and nurses attending the delivery: errors such as detecting, diagnosing, and/or treating a problem that arises. Inappropriate or inadequate response to these problems is considered medical malpractice and healthcare professionals may be held legally liable for their actions—or, in some cases, inaction.
We Can Help
If you suspect your child’s condition was brought on by medical malpractice, we can help you. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation with an experienced lawyer who can evaluate your case and ensure your legal rights are fully protected.
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Perey Law Group, PLLC
1606 8th Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: (206) 443-7600
Fax: (206) 443-4785