Understanding Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s Palsy is a common birth defect that affects thousands of newborns every year, resulting in some level of paralysis. Also known as Brachial Plexus Paralysis, Erb’s Palsy is most often caused by birth trauma which damages nerves in the newborn’s arms. Damage to the nerves may cause partial or complete paralysis of the muscles in the arm, shoulder, or hand. Studies show that one or two out of every 1,000 babies born will suffer from the condition, however, most injuries resolve themselves without treatment during the first year of life. Children who do not overcome the condition without treatment can benefit from physical therapy, exercise, and surgery in severe cases.

More often than not, the cause of Erb’s Palsy is dystocia, which is an abnormal or difficult childbirth or labor. Birth injuries may occur if the child’s head and neck are pulled through the birth canal at the same time as the shoulders pass through. Excessive pulling on the shoulders or pressure applied to the raised arms during a breech delivery are also causes of Erb’s Palsy in newborns.

If your baby has been affected by Erb’s Palsy due to the negligent actions of a medical staff member, contact the Appleton birth injury lawyers of Habush, Habush, & Rottier, S.C. at 1-800-757-8644 to discuss your case and to schedule your free initial consultation. During your consultation, the Appleton birth injury lawyers will evaluate your case and provide you with professional advice on how best to proceed with legal action against the negligent doctor or staff member who caused your child’s injury.