(Erb’s Palsy)
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originate near the neck and shoulder. These nerves begin at the spinal cord in the neck and control the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Nerves are the electrical wiring system in all people that carry messages from the brain to the rest of the body. A nerve is like an electrical cable wrapped in insulation.
Motor nerves carry messages from the brain to muscles to make the body move. Sensory nerves carry messages to the brain from different parts of the body to signal pain, pressure, and temperature. The brachial plexus has nerves that are both motor and sensory.
The brachial plexus can often be injured in the birth process. It is often avoidable but it is a serious injury.
The network of nerves is fragile and can be damaged by pressure, stretching, or cutting. Stretching can occur when the head and neck are forced away from the shoulder, such as might happen in a fall off a motorcycle. If severe enough, the nerves can actually avulse, or tear out of, their roots in the neck. Pressure could occur from crushing of the brachial plexus between the collarbone and first rib, or swelling in this area from injured muscles or other structures.
Davis Levin Livingston of Honolulu, Hawaii represents children that suffer a variety of birth injuries and is familiar with the resources nationwide to assist in the treatment and rehabilitation of injured children. Contact us today for a free case evaluation – 877-764-8595 or at Justice@DavisLevin.com
