Brachial Plexus Injury Diagnosis

The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that sends signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. A brachial plexus injury occurs when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or even torn away from the spinal cord. This type of injury occurs in about 3 of every 1,000 births.¹ A brachial plexus injury can lead to a loss of movement or weakness of the arm when the nerves are damaged. These injuries can happen when the baby’s neck is stretched to one side or there is some sort of shoulder trauma during delivery. Other forms of brachial plexus injuries include Erb’s palsy and Horner’s syndrome.

Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries

The nerves of the brachial plexus can be affected by compression inside the womb or during a difficult or traumatic delivery. While there are a number of events that could lead to a brachial plexus injury, specific causes for Erb’s palsy and Horner’s syndrome can be found by clicking the corresponding hyperlinks.

Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injuries

Identifying a brachial plexus injury in newborns can be difficult. Since a newborn’s nerves behave differently than an adult’s, it is estimated that only about 4 percent of newborns who suffer a brachial plexus injury experience severe pain.² Even if a bone fracture accompanies the brachial plexus injury, the baby will experience some discomfort, but not usually intense pain. A newborn with a brachial plexus injury may exhibit some of the following:

• Full or partial lack of movement to the affected arm or hand
• A weakened grip
• The arm may appear to hang limp or bend to the body at an odd angle
• Decreased sensation in the upper extremity

Are You Eligible for a Birth Injury Lawsuit?

Our Team is committed to seeking justice for those affected by a birth injury. Getting you and your child the compensation you deserve to pay for items like long term care, medical treatments, therapies, medications, and assistive equipment is our top priority. We are here to help make that process as simple as possible for you and your family. Call us now at 1-800-609-2759 for a FREE consultation. Don’t wait; your time to file a claim may be limited.