There are various types of cerebral palsy. The effects of each one are somewhat different, though many children suffer from multiple types of this disorder. In some cases, the cerebral palsy results in severe symptoms not related to those normally associated with the condition. In any case, all forms of cerebral palsy involve a birth injury, though they sometimes occur for unknown reasons. Medical malpractice is sometimes the cause. There are cases where the brain damage that causes this condition is sustained while the child is in the womb or later in life.
In all cases, cerebral palsy affects the muscles. It can cause uneven tension in the muscles, leading to odd postures and problems with motor skills. Because it is so focused on the muscles, it sometimes isn’t noticed directly after birth. The baby is simply not moving around enough at that point to notice, in many cases. It is sometimes noticed quickly after birth but, in some cases, it may be undiagnosed for a long time following birth. A cerebral palsy lawyer will have to go back through the case to find out when the problem was likely caused, and how.
Some of the common effects of cerebral palsy include:

• Trouble walking
• Awkward postures
• Stiffness of the arms
• A lack of precise motor skills
• Poor balance

Cerebral palsy is also sometimes associated with:

• Learning disabilities
• Problems with speech
• Problems with hearing
• Facial problems (drooling, etc.)

This condition is caused by brain injury in the infant, sometimes as a result of birth trauma. The injury occurs when the brain is starved of oxygen and the parts of the brain that affect control of the muscles are damaged. This results in the characteristic symptoms of the condition. Cerebral palsy in infants can result in conditions that require them to have healthcare provided to them for the rest of their lives.
If you believe that a birth injury may be to blame for your child’s cerebral palsy and, specifically, that that injury was caused by medical negligence, you should speak with a lawyer. You will, without question, have high medical bills coming your way due to your child’s condition and, if the doctors or hospital was responsible for that injury, an attorney may be able to help you recover financial damages. The first step is meeting with one and discussing your situation to see if there’s a case.