HOW CAN SCOLIOSIS BE CAUSED BY MEDICAL MISTAKES MADE DURING LABOR OR DELIVERY?

When the spine curves 10 degrees or more, a person may be diagnosed with scoliosis. Some signs of scoliosis include

A head that is not centered on the body. Shoulders that are at different heights. Hips that are at different heights or positions. Arms that hang in different ways next to the body when standing straight. Sides of the back that appear different in height when bending forward. The symptoms of scoliosis may be differences in appearance, but the effects of scoliosis are much more significant. A person with scoliosis may experience pain and, if the scoliosis goes untreated, heart and lung problems may develop.

In the majority of cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. However, it may be hereditary, it may be due to illness or injury, and in some cases it may be caused by a birth injury.

When Scoliosis May Be a Birth Injury There are a few ways that a mistake made during labor or delivery could result in scoliosis. For example, your child may suffer scoliosis after:

A neck or back injury. The use of vacuums and forceps, for example, can put stress on a baby’s neck and cause trauma that may result in scoliosis. Oxygen deprivation. Children with cerebral palsy and other conditions that limit their ability to walk may also have scoliosis. An infection. An infection can interfere with spinal development and may result in scoliosis. If your child is diagnosed with scoliosis, or any other type of birth injury, because of a medical professional’s negligence, your child may be able to recover damages for her injuries. These damages may include compensation for past and future medical expenses, out-of-pocket costs, pain, suffering, and other damages.

To learn more, please contact our experienced birth injury law firm today for a free and confidential consultation. We would be happy to review your child’s potential case and provide you with more information about your child’s rights and his/her potential recovery.