Understanding Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries

If you've recently given birth and your child has been diagnosed with a brachial plexus birth injury, you may be feeling overwhelmed. You may wonder if the injury could have been prevented and what you should do now. Here's what you need to know about a brachial plexus birth injury and your options moving forward.

What Is A Brachial Plexus Birth Injury?

A brachial plexus birth injury occurs when there is damage to the bundle of nerves located in the neck. These nerves control movement and sensation in the arm. During childbirth, if too much pressure is applied to these nerves, they can become stretched or even torn, resulting in injury, which can cause weakness or paralysis of the affected arm. It also can cause pain and numbness in that same arm.

Can A Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Be Prevented?

In some cases, yes! With proper monitoring during delivery, it may be possible to identify potential risks associated with delivering a baby with a large shoulders-first diameter, also known as shoulder dystocia. This delivery complication occurs when the baby's head is delivered, but its shoulders get stuck behind the mother's pelvis. If appropriate measures are taken, the risk of a brachial plexus birth injury could be eliminated. For example, a McRoberts Maneuver involves the mother pushing her legs back towards her chest to open the pelvis area and to position the baby at a better angle for delivery.

It should be noted that many, but not all, cases can be prevented.

Do You Need A Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Attorney?

If your child suffered a brachial plexus birth injury due to medical negligence during delivery, speaking with an experienced attorney who specializes in medical malpractice cases can be beneficial for your family. They will review your case and advise you on any legal action you can take to help ensure that your child gets the best care possible moving forward. In addition to helping get compensation for damages related to medical expenses, they can also provide support as you navigate any changes or challenges that come up along the way while caring for your child's recovery from their injuries.

No parent should experience the trauma of seeing their baby suffer from an avoidable brachial plexus birth injury following delivery. If you believe that medical negligence was involved in your baby's brachial plexus birth injury, speaking with an experienced attorney specializing in medical malpractice claims could provide valuable information about available legal recourse for you and your family. 

For more information, contact a local brachial plexus birth injury lawyer.