The Basal Ganglia and Athetoid Cerebral Palsy – What to Expect

cerebral-palsyCerebral palsy is a complicated and difficult condition both to endure and to understand. In reality, it’s actually a whole set of specific conditions that fall under one common umbrella. Most people understand that cerebral palsy results from damage that’s inflicted on a person’s brain. Many people who suffer from this condition face a difficult life because the damage that was inflicted on their brain occurred while they were in the process of being born. The specific struggles they will face will largely depend on the specific type of damage that they endured.

Below you will find a brief overview of a portion of the brain known as the basal ganglia. You will also find information regarding how damage to this portion of the brain leads to a certain type of cerebral palsy. There will also be information regarding the specific types of symptoms and challenges someone in this position will face. Anyone who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy that arose because of medical negligence needs to obtain the help of experienced New York medical malpractice lawyers as soon as possible.

The Basal Ganglia – A Brief Introduction

The basal ganglia are actually located in two different areas of the brain. The functions overseen by the basal ganglia include complicated motor movements that tend to relate to athletic endeavors and more common types of movements such as typing. When people dance or skip, they are using the basal ganglia. In addition, the basal ganglia help a person control his or her posture and remember on an instinctive level how to position one’s body.

Basal Ganglia Trauma and Cerebral Palsy

Unfortunately, when someone suffers an injury to the basal ganglia during birth, that person could face a lifetime of difficulties. For instance, damage to the basal ganglia could lead to symptoms that include involuntary muscle movements and dystonia, which is a condition whereby the tone in the muscle tissue in the body fluctuates.

All of these symptoms are consistent with a form of cerebral palsy known as athetoid cerebral palsy. People who suffer from this condition will struggle to walk, run, sit and stand properly and control their muscles in general. In addition, people who are fighting against this challenge will also endure struggles with muscle tissue and groups that are not growing properly and functioning in a way that’s predictable or manageable.

Basal Ganglia Birth Injury and Negligence

When a person suffers an injury to the basal ganglia during birth, it’s possible that such an injury occurred because those overseeing the delivery did not perform properly. If that’s what occurred, then those responsible for this type of harm could ultimately be liable for damages. If your child suffered a birth injury that led to cerebral palsy, you need to seek the help of New York medical malpractice lawyers who have been fighting for the rights of families for more than 40 years. Contact The Fitzgerald Law Firm today to schedule a free initial consultation.

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