About Erbs Palsy / Brachial Plexus Injuries

October 17, 2007

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that run from the spine, through shoulder, and into the finger tips. The brachial plexus conducts signals from the spine which cause the arm and hand to move. Depending upon which nerves are injured and how severely they have been injured, the muscles that control the arm and/or hand may become weak or paralyzed.

Erbs palsy or brachial plexus injuries usually occur during natural deliveries.

When an infant is too large to pass through the mother’ vaginal canal, the baby’ shoulder can become lodged behind the mother’ pubic bone after the head has been delivered. If the doctor elects a vaginal delivery in this instance rather than a c-section, the baby may suffer a brachial plexus injury if physician improperly pulls or twists the baby’ head which can stretch, tear or otherwise the nerves.

When a baby suffers a brachial plexus injury, qualified pediatric neurologists, rehabilitation physicians, and physical occupational therapists can help combat the effects this injury. Unfortunately, this level of care often requires a tremendous amount of time, money, and effort. If you believe your child may have suffered a brachial plexus injury or has Erbs Palsy because of medical malpractice, please contact our Chicago office for a free consultation.