Brachial plexus injuries like Erb’s palsy occur when the network of nerves in the shoulder, arm, and hand sustain injury such as tearing, stretching, or bruising. Even though brachial plexus injuries can technically occur at anytime, they are more prone to occur during birth—generally as a result of impact to the shoulders. Depending on the circumstances of the delivery, brachial plexus injuries may be inevitable. However, this is not always the case, and sometimes the injuries occur as a direct result of the negligence or wrongdoing of a medical professional.

If your child suffers from Erb’s palsy or other brachial plexus injury and you believe medical malpractice is to blame, it is important that you consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Please contact Rheingold, Valet, Rheingold, Shkolnik & McCartney today for a no-cost consultation with a skilled and proven medical malpractice attorney who can evaluate your claim and ensure your rights are protected.

What You Should Know

Brachial plexus injuries range from mild to severe, and treatments vary accordingly. Some babies recover from brachial plexus injuries within the first three or four months—with minimal treatment. However, more extensive brachial plexus injuries may require physical therapy and/or surgery, and not all treatments result in full recovery.

Erb’s palsy and other brachial plexus injuries that occur around the time of birth are often preventable. Nevertheless, there are risk factors that increase the likelihood of brachial plexus injuries. These risk factors include:

• Breech birth
• Prolonged labor
• Mother has small pelvis
• Baby is large
• Mother is overweight

The use of delivery devices such as vacuum extraction and forceps may also increase the risk of brachial plexus injuries, especially when used improperly or with excessive force.

Is Medical Malpractice to Blame?

If you suspect your child’s brachial plexus injury is the result of medical malpractice, you should consult with an attorney immediately. You and your family may be eligible to receive reimbursement for the cost of medical treatments and more. Please contact us today for a FREE case evaluation with an experienced and respected attorney who can determine if medical malpractice was a contributing factor to your child’s condition and help you plan an appropriate course of action.