Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Lawyer

There are many nerves located in the shoulders that are responsible for feeling and movement of the arm, hands and fingers. This cluster of nerves is called the brachial plexus, which receives nerve signals from the spinal cord at the neck. When the brachial plexus is damaged, it can cause palsy or other problems that impact the arms, hands and fingers. Brachial plexus birth injuries occur in an estimated one or two births out of 1,000 and are often caused by delivery errors.

Brachial plexus birth injuries occur when too much strain is put on the neck and shoulder during delivery. This can occur for several reasons, but it can also be prevented in most cases. If the child’s shoulder becomes lodged in the pelvic bone, a breech birth occurs or the umbilical cord becomes compressed, it can become difficult or urgent to complete the delivery. If too much pressure is used to mobilize the child, the brachial plexus can be stretched and damaged. This also occurs with the improper use of a vacuum or forceps. These issues can usually be avoided by proper planning and monitoring before and during labor.

Consequences of Brachial Plexus Injuries

In many brachial plexus injuries, the nerves are stretched but not permanently damaged. After a few months, they can heal on their own without long-term impact. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. In severe brachial plexus injuries, the child may have paralysis and other movement issues in the shoulders, arms, hands and fingers.

A quick diagnosis and treatment are the best options to minimize long-term damage. This can be expensive and time-consuming, but it is worth the investment to give the child the best chance at full mobility. If there is long-term damage, the expenses and impact on the quality of life can be much higher.

If your child was subjected to poor handling and improper medical techniques during delivery, resulting in a brachial plexus injury, you may be eligible to seek compensation in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Contact our legal team at Race Law Firm to discuss your options during a free consultation.