Erb’s Palsy is a specific kind of brachial plexus palsy which causes weakness or loss of motion in the arm. It is usually the result of a difficult delivery, with possible negligence.  The Brachial plexus is a group of five nerves located at the base of the neck which lead into the arm. During delivery if the baby’s neck is stretched in one direction for too long, there is nerve damage that leads to a loss of motion and feeling in the arm. A complete brachial plexus palsy results when injury affects all five brachial nerves, leading to complete paralysis in the arm.  Sometimes the doctor didn’t appreciate the size or position of the baby which contributes to this injury.

If your child was born with a fractured clavicle, shoulder or limp arm and was sent for x-rays and/or physical therapy, you may want to talk to a lawyer to find out whether or not this injury was preventable – especially if it may be permanent.  Please feel free to contact us if you have questions about a birth injury.