Category Archives: Cerebral Palsy
Maine Settles CP Lawsuit
Three men with cerebral palsy sued the state of Maine for a lack of independence. The three men – Jacob Van Meter, Adam Fletcher and Eric Reeves – are all in their 20s and 30s. They were confined to living in nursing homes against their wishes, and they insisted that they were fully capable of living independent lives. They represented 121 people in a class action lawsuit that included people with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and other conditions that might require nursing home care. Specifically, the lawsuit claimed that the state violated the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Nursing Home Reform Act by not providing services that would integrate the men into their communities. The lawsuit was filed in 2009 and certified as a class action in 2011. The plaintiffs are content with the terms of the settlement. Over the next five years, the Department of Health and Human Services…
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New Drug Could Improve Cerebral Palsy Motor Skills
A new drug tested on rabbits, administered after birth, could lead to increased motor function for humans with cerebral palsy if further testing yields positive results. The drug, tested by researchers at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in Detroit, was successful in improving motor skills for rabbits born with cerebral palsy-like symptoms. Until now, most preventative measures against cerebral palsy only worked while the mother was in utero. Dr. Sujatha Kannan, a study researcher with NICHD, said that these new findings could indicate “a window of opportunity for treatment, even after birth.” The researchers gave the new drug to one-year-old rabbits with limited muscle movement. Five days later, the rabbits were nearly as mobile as healthy rabbits. Rabbits with similar conditions were given placebos, and their movements did not improve. Much is still unknown about the drug. The effects may not be…
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Preventing CP Child Injuries
Working with kids afflicted with cerebral palsy brings about a whole set of unique challenges and provisions. Whether you are a parent, teacher or daycare provider, here are a few ways to prevent injury when caring for children with cerebral palsy. Protective Gear Children with cerebral palsy are typically prone to seizures and falls. Medical professionals recommend shoes with a strong grip (preferably a rubber tread) and a helmet if the child falls and seizes frequently. Constant Supervision Always keep an eye on activities. Professionals urge caution when activities call for sharp objects such as scissors. There are plenty of utensils, tools and toys designed specifically for children with cerebral palsy that you can take advantage of. A Safe Space Make sure the space is modified for children with cerebral palsy. This includes: Strong, heavy furniture resistant against tipping over Handrails installed in bathrooms Skid-proof surfaces on floors and underneath plates…
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