Erb’s Palsy Diagnosis

Erb’s palsy is the most common type of a brachial plexus injury and occurs when the upper trunk of the brachial plexus is damaged. Usually this type of injury happens during a difficult delivery. For example, exerting excessive force on the shoulders to help get a large newborn out of the birth canal could cause a brachial plexus injury and lead to Erb’s palsy. Typically, a child suffering from Erb’s palsy will have weakness involving the muscles of the shoulder and biceps and/or may appear to have one arm that hangs limp or at an odd angle.

Causes of Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s palsy is caused by the nerves of the brachial plexus being stretched when the head and neck are moved in opposite directions before or during childbirth. A brachial plexus injury which leads to Erb’s palsy could be caused by:

• The infant’s head and neck pulling toward the side as the shoulders pass through the birth canal
• Large gestational size
• Breech birth
• Prolonged or difficult labor
• Vacuum or forceps-assisted delivery
• Twin or multiple pregnancy

Symptoms of Erb’s Palsy

An infant with Erb’s palsy injury may exhibit some of the following:

• Weakness in one arm
• Loss of feeling in the arm
• Partial or total paralysis of the arm
• The arm may appear to hang limp or bend to the body at an odd angle

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.