Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s Palsy, also known as Erb-Duchenne Palsy or Brachial Plexus Palsy, is a paralysis of the arm caused by injuries to the upper group of the arm’s main nerve group. This damage almost always occurs during the process of birth. Depending on the extent of the damage, the paralysis may resolve itself over the course of several months. If it is severe enough, the child may need intensive physical therapy or even surgery to correct the problem.

Dystocia, an abnormal or difficult childbirth, is the most common cause. If a newborn’s head and neck are pulled towards the side while the shoulders pass through the birth control, the condition can result. Additionally, Erb’s Palsy can be triggered by excessive shoulder pulling during a head-first delivery or raised arms during a breech birth.

The resulting paralysis can be partial or incomplete, with damage ranging from bruising of the nerves to complete tears. Brachial Plexus Palsy often leaves patients with stunted arm development, including the muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems. The lack of proper circulatory system development prevents the arm from regulating its own temperature and reduces the healing ability of the skin. Muscular development problems make the affected arm much weaker than the other, making it impossible for many patients to lift their arm above the shoulder. Finally, nervous system damage causes many sufferers to lose sensation in the limb.

Erb’s Palsy is a serious form of paralysis often caused by birth injuries. If you or your child suffers from Erb’s Palsy due to medical malpractice that occurred during the birthing process, contact the experienced Racine personal injury lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier today at 800.682.3434 to learn more.