Category Archives: Newsletters

The iPad and other tablet computers are proving to be very helpful for children with cerebral palsy. With thousands of disability-related apps, a large touch screen and good portability, the iPad can serve as communicator, therapeutic device, educational tool and behavior monitor. iPads have much larger screens than other Apple devices, such as the iPhone and iPod touch, making them more accessible to children with vision problems or diminished motor skills. For many children with cerebral palsy, the large touch screen is easier to use than a keyboard or a mouse. Also, by using the touch screen, children can actually improve their fine motor skills. The iPad also offers children with cerebral palsy a chance to “fit in.” Other kids might carry around cell phones or iPods that children with cerebral palsy simply are not able to use. The larger-yet-still-portable iPad is an ideal choice for these children, and having…
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Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that permanently affect balance, coordination, movement and/or posture. This particular birth defect results from damage to the cerebrum, the part of the brain that controls cognitive thought, motor skills and sensory faculties. In most cases, the cerebral damage is caused by fetal oxygen deprivation right before or during delivery. Childbirth complications such as umbilical cord entanglement and uterine rupture can lead to fetal oxygen deprivation. When avoidable birth trauma results in cerebral palsy, parents may be entitled to financial compensation that will help offset their child’s lifetime cost of care. An experienced cerebral palsy attorney helps parents understand and protect their rights under medical malpractice law. Early Indications of Cerebral Palsy In some cases, symptoms of cerebral palsy can be seen almost immediately after birth. Early warning signs include: Seizures Trouble sucking or swallowing Crying that is weak or shrill Body positions…
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Points to Environmental Factors A new study supports the argument that environmental factors may play a causal role in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). According to recent research at Northwestern University involving ASD-discordant twin pairs who are part of the Swedish Twin Registry’s Child and Adolescent Twin Study, twins with a lower birth weight are more than three times as likely to meet criteria for autism spectrum disorder. The study identified a 13 percent increase in ASD risk for every 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of decreased birth weight. Led by Molly Losh, director of Northwestern’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Laboratory, researchers studied 3,725 same-sex twin pairs born between 1992 and 1995 with a difference in birth weight of more than 400 grams (about 14 ounces) or at least 15 percent. The study sample included both identical and fraternal twins. According to Losh (as quoted by Science Daily): “That only one…
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