Birth Injury

Erb's Palsy / Brachial Plexus Injury

Another birth injury affecting muscle movement and coordination involves the brachial plexus. Erb's palsy and Klumpke's palsy can result from damage to the brachial plexus during childbirth.

While causes of cerebral palsy involve damage to the brain, brachial plexus injuries involve damage to a gathering of nerves between the shoulder and the spine called the brachial plexus. If this "crossroads" of nerves is damaged, the developing child can have reduced movement of the arms, shoulders, and hands.

If the upper part of the brachial plexus is damaged, the child's condition is known as Erb's palsy. Movement will be affected in the arm and shoulder. If the lower part of the brachial plexus is damaged, that condition is called Klumpke's palsy. This condition affects movement in the child's hand.

Like causes of cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injuries are commonly the result of a doctor's negligence. If a doctor failed to recognize that the child is abnormally large, several complications can occur in handling and delivery. Shoulder dystocia occurs when a large baby's shoulder becomes lodged during delivery, after the head comes out. If improperly or roughly handled, the tension can cause damage resulting in Erb's palsy or Klumpke's palsy.