When women give birth in a medical facility, they rely on the health care professionals there o keep them safe. It is the job of the medical staff to protect both mother and baby. But human error is always possible. Today we will look at Erb’s palsy, a condition that may arise from negligent staff actions.
Erb’s palsy is a result of injury to the brachial plexus nerves, which are a network of nerves that control the movement and sensation in the entire arm. If compromised, an individual may be unable to fully lift their arm or use their hand. They may experience numbness or tingling. In some severe cases, they may not be able to move the affected limb at all.
Injuries to the brachial plexus can occur to a newborn during a difficult delivery, which may involve negligence by medical staff for failing to intervene properly. This is often associated with conditions that include:
- High birth weight
- Baby in breech position
- Prolonged labor
Brachial injuries can also occur when playing sports, especially football or other contact sports., or from motor vehicle accidents.
Fortunately, the prognosis for Erb’s palsy is generally good. The earlier a victim gets physical therapy, the faster they are likely to recover. Most babies affected by this palsy can reach a full recovery. But it can still take years to reach that point, which can set back a child’s stages of physical development. The stress of having to deal with Erb’s palsy can take a toll on a new parent.
If you are facing this situation, it makes sense to learn all you can. And if serious injury has occurred, an experienced attorney can explain your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
