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Is Erb’s palsy something you should worry about?

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2015 | Birth Injury |

Unfortunately, it is impossible for anyone to predict how labor will go for a mother-to-be. It is not uncommon for new parents to fear that something may go wrong in the process of childbirth. Injuries that cause ailments like Erb’s palsy may also be a concern. But just how common is Erb’s palsy?

Erb’s palsy is defined as a type of brachial plexus palsy. This means that it affects the brachial plexus nerves. These nerves can be found near the base of the neck. Because of this, injuries to the neck can potentially affect the brachial plexus. Extensive damage to the neck could result in Erb’s palsy, as defined by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.  One of the most common ways for Erb’s palsy to form is when a newborn baby’s neck is stretched during delivery. This could be a doctor’s error. It may also happen naturally due to a difficult labor.

This condition can cause damage to the fingers, hand, arm and shoulder of the sufferer. This is due to the fact that the brachial plexus nerves control the arms. This means that a sufferer could experience arm weakness. In some cases, the child may not be able to move their arms at all. Fortunately, Erb’s palsy is not a very common condition. While accidents are unpredictable, Erb’s palsy in newborns is not high.

Erb’s palsy can often times be treated with physical therapy as well. However, this process can be difficult for the child and expensive for the parents. Keeping informed can help a parent cope if their child has Erb’s palsy or any other condition.

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