NEUROMOTOR IEP

Neuromotor IEP



Neuromotor IEP

Patient Profile

I choose to observe a Christian a student that has cerebral palsy. He is 15 years old and lives with his parents. He is born with a birth injury of cerebral palsy. Therefore, he is unable to walk, talk, and play as other children do.

Causes of Cerebral Palsy

In this case child is born with a birth injury of cerebral palsy. However in other cases it is caused by medical negligence. If your baby was delivered via vacuum extraction or forceps then their cerebral palsy may be the result of the improper use of these assistive medical devices (McKearnan, 2004).

It could also be the result of a failure to detect and/or treat an infection. Another cause of cerebral palsy is fetal distress in the womb that goes unrecognized or isn't properly monitored. When you believe that your child's birth injury was preventable, then you could be eligible to pursue a medical malpractice claim.

Complications of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy can lead to complications that last a lifetime. Muscle spasticity (stiffness, spasms) and muscle weakness can affect an individual with cerebral palsy. In some cases the muscle tissue shortens, which interferes with proper bone growth. The joints can then become deformed, a condition known as a contracture, leading to a loss of motion in the joints (Stanley, 2000).

It is not uncommon for patients with cerebral palsy to have difficulties with coordination and balance. Due to the muscle problems and awkward movements, pain is a common ailment. Additionally, fatigue and weakness can plague the individual. Osteoarthritis can develop as a result of the pressure placed on the joints and because of the stress this condition places on the body, other ailments common to older people can develop.

Costs of Cerebral Palsy

There are expensive medical costs involved in cerebral palsy patient care. It can go into the hundreds of thousands, even millions, of dollars. Since treatment for a patient is generally life-long, it can leave a family financially devastated. Treatment for muscle and joint problems can range from simple prescription muscle relaxants to complex orthopedic surgery. Multiple types of therapy may also be required including physical, language or speech.

Since special accommodations need to be made for a child with a birth injury of cerebral palsy, educational programs that begin in their preschool years and continue throughout the course of their time in school could be expensive. Another common cost is a wheelchair. Most homes are not fitted or equipped for a wheelchair so modifications will need to be made. These are additional costs that can quickly add up.There may be other expenses that a family will encounter with a child who has cerebral palsy. It is difficult to know what the future will bring and what types of additional medical care will be required.

One of the most devastating things for a family to experience is a birth injury. Cerebral palsy can change the entire course of the child and family's life. With the complications and costs involved, your next step should be ...