BRACHIAL PLEXUS ATTORNEYS IN JACKSON, MS 

While there are many naturally occurring complications that can arise during the delivery of a baby, nobody wants their child to suffer from preventable medical negligence in the delivery room. Brachial plexus palsy and related injuries can occur when nerves on either side of the neck that run from the spine to the arms are somehow damaged. In most cases, one arm or side is impacted by the injury. In rare cases, both arms are affected. Depending upon the severity of the injury, the child could have mild symptoms like reduced sensitivity or muscle control to full paralysis of the arm. Brachial plexus injuries typically happen when the baby’s shoulder is stuck on the mother’s pelvis.

Preventable Birth Injuries

There are a variety of safe and accepted maneuvers and tools that can be used if a baby’s shoulder is stuck. If a vacuum extractor or forceps are used improperly or if unsafe maneuvers are employed, the baby will be at risk for a potentially irreversible injury. The old adage about an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure also works in situations involving brachial plexus. Doctors and medical teams should consider all possible risk factors and avoid negligently prolonging treatment in cases where immediate intervention could prevent a potentially damaging birth injury. Listed below are some risk factors for brachial plexus.

Erb’s Palsy and Brachial Plexus

Erb’s palsy can occur as a result of a brachial plexus birth injury. This type of palsy is a paralysis that impacts a part of the arm. Each case is different, and symptoms can range from mild paralysis all the way to full paralysis of the effected arm. Typically, the shoulder will show the most damage. Arm movement may be limited. It’s possible to have functioning motor skills and a working hand. Erb’s palsy is often caused from a doctor forcefully pulling on a baby’s arm during delivery.