Erb’s Palsy, also known as brachial plexus palsy is nerve damage to the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a group of nerves located around the neck area and may become damaged during difficult delivery. Most times, Erb’s palsy is caused by the infant’s neck being stretched too much during delivery by poor delivery technique and/or excessive force applied by the delivery doctor. This causes nerve damage, leading to weakness, loss of feeling and/or paralysis of the arm. Depending on the situation during delivery and the cause of damage to the infant’s brachial plexus, it may be considered medical malpractice.
Early diagnosis and treatment of Erb’s palsy is crucial following childbirth. Early treatment will have a significant impact on the child’s life. There are different types of nerve injuries, leading to different treatment and recovery options. Depending on the severity of the injury, the type of treatment, the rate and amount of recovery varies.
Many times, children with brachial plexus palsy recover on their own. It’s common for children to improve or recover by three to four months of age. There are both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for Erb’s palsy. Most physicians recommend nonsurgical treatment to start. Occupational and physical therapy are the most common treatment methods for brachial plexus palsy. Working with a doctor or physical therapist will help functionality of the arm to recover. Most times, the infant will slowly start showing progress and fully recover in about two years or so.
If there isn’t progress after up to six months of physical therapy, your physician may recommend surgery to help treat Erb’s palsy. Although surgery won’t fully restore normal activity, performing surgical procedures may improve function.
If you feel your child suffered Erb’s palsy or another brachial plexus injury and wish to speak with a medical malpractice attorney to bring legal action to compensate for damages, please contact us today.
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