The Terrible Truth About Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries!

By Rachelle Wilber

As a parent, watching your newborn go through pain is something that no one wants to experience. Although a natural and joyous process, childbirth can sometimes take a turn and lead to complications that can cause long-term damage. One such complication is a brachial plexus birth injury, also known as Erb’s palsy. This injury can lead to paralysis in the arm and shoulder and can have a long-term impact on the life of your child. This blog post aims to provide insight into the terrible truth about brachial plexus birth injuries.

Causes

Brachial plexus birth injuries are caused by damage to the brachial plexus nerves, which are located in the shoulder region of the baby. These nerves are responsible for the movement and sensation of the arms and hands. During childbirth, the brachial plexus can be stretched, compressed, or torn due to various reasons such as a large baby, a breech delivery, shoulder dystocia, or even a negligent delivery doctor. The injury can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of nerve damage. Babies with a brachial plexus birth injury may show symptoms such as limited movement in the affected arm, weakness, and lack of sensation in the affected area.

Treatment Options

Diagnosis and treatment of brachial plexus birth injuries depend on their severity. Mild injuries may heal on their own within a few months, while severe injuries may require surgery or long-term physical therapy. To diagnose the injury, the doctor may perform various tests such as a physical examination, imaging tests, and nerve conduction studies. If your child is diagnosed with a brachial plexus birth injury, it is important to seek professional medical care immediately and follow through with the prescribed treatment plan.

The Common Effects

One of the most devastating effects of brachial plexus birth injuries on infants is the long-term impact on their quality of life. Children with severe injuries may face challenges such as limited mobility, muscle atrophy, and even unable to perform daily activities. Such physical limitations may also affect their mental and emotional well-being. It is important for parents to seek support and guidance from a multidisciplinary team that can provide medical, therapeutic, and emotional support for their kids to help them learn how to live the best life they can.

Seeking Legal Advice

In the event that your child has suffered a brachial plexus birth injury due to medical negligence, it is important to seek legal advice from a qualified attorney. A brachial plexus birth injury attorney can help you determine if you have a valid case and assist in filing a lawsuit against the responsible parties. Your attorney can also advise on potential damages that may be obtained through settlement or court award. With their expertise, you can seek justice for your child and obtain financial compensation for their medical expenses, ongoing treatment costs, pain, suffering, etc.

No parent should ever have to go through the physical and emotional trauma of watching their newborn suffer from any birth injury. The physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming for the entire family. However, early diagnosis, proper treatment, and supportive care can go a long way in helping your child recover from the injury. It is important for parents to educate themselves on the topic, be proactive during pregnancy and delivery, and seek professional guidance if their child shows any signs of a brachial plexus birth injury. After all, the well-being of our little ones is the most precious thing in the world.

About the Author

Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/people/Rachelle-Wilber/100009221637700/