During childbirth, a baby may experience injury to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves controlling the shoulder, arm and hand. Also known as Erb’s palsy, it occurs when these nerves are damaged, leading to weakness or paralysis in the affected arm.
Erb’s palsy during birth can be a result of negligence, in which case you can file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the healthcare provider for failing to take appropriate care during delivery.
What are the symptoms of Erb’s palsy in children?
If your baby suffered a brachial plexus injury during birth, they may exhibit various symptoms of Erb’s palsy, which can vary depending on the extent of nerve damage. Common symptoms include:
- Weakness or limpness in one arm: Your child may have difficulty moving or lifting the affected arm, and it may appear weaker compared to the other.
- Limited movement: Children with Erb’s palsy often struggle with full range of motion in the arm, particularly with raising the arm over the head or straightening the elbow.
- Arm bent at the elbow and held against the body: This is a classic sign of Erb’s palsy, where the arm is positioned unnaturally due to muscle weakness and nerve impairment.
- Lack of reflexes in the affected arm: Reflexes, such as the Moro (startle) reflex, may be absent or diminished in the affected arm.
- Decreased grip strength in the hand: Babies may have difficulty gripping objects or holding onto items with the hand on the affected side.
- Lack of sensation: In some cases, the affected arm may feel numb or have reduced sensitivity to touch, which could impact motor skills development as the child grows.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek medical examinations to confirm the diagnosis and explore treatment options, which can range from physical therapy to, in severe cases, surgical intervention.