Erb’s Palsy and Klumpke’s Palsy

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What Is Erb’s Palsy And Klumpke’s Palsy?

When the nerves of the upper brachial plexus are damaged, it results in Erb’s palsy. Often, an infant will have movement in its fingers and hand, but will not be able to move their upper arm or rotate its lower arm. Klumpke’s Palsy occurs when the nerves in the lower brachial plexus are damaged and results in paralysis of the hand and wrist. Kumpke’s palsy can also cause the eyelid to droop on the side of the opposite to the affected hand.

What Is The Difference Between Erb’s Palsy And Klumpke’s Palsy?

Klumpke’s palsy and Erb’s palsy are fairly similar, they’re still two very different types of injuries. Klumpke’s palsy affects the lower brachial plexus nerves and Erb’s palsy affects the upper brachial plexus nerves. While brachial plexus indicates damage to the brachial plexus nerves, only Erb’s palsy is a synonym for brachial plexus palsy – not Klumpke’s palsy, which is intended to be independent.

Causes Of Erb’s Palsy And Klumpke’s Palsy?

Klumpke’s palsy and Erb’s palsy are most commonly a condition labeled shoulder dystocia, when the baby is delivered vaginally and the shoulder gets caught on the pubic bone. In fact, the vast majority of brachial plexus injuries result from difficulties during childbirth. It is common for birth injuries to develop due to the practitioner using improper delivery techniques or applying to much pressure to the baby’s neck and shoulders during delivery. Even the slightest damage can result in numbness or loss of feeling for an infant anywhere from the forearm, wrist or hand.

What Are The Effects Of Erb’s Palsy And Klumpke’s Palsy?

The disability associated with brachial plexus injuries such as Erb’s palsy and Klumpke’s palsy can vary from weakness to paralysis. There are some cases where these brachial plexus injuries will heal on their own. Other cases of Erb’s palsy and Klumpke’s palsy can be surgically repaired via nerve grafts, nerve transfers, or muscle transfers. Unfortunately, some brachial plexus injuries are permanent and can result in significant disability and pain.

How Shea Law Group Can Help You

If you believe your infant has suffered from a brachial plexus injury such as Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy, contact a Chicago personal injury attorney at Shea Law Group for a free consultation. We will discuss your birth injury case with you and advise you every step of the way. If the injury was caused by a negligent birthing maneuver, we will aggressively fight for your family to ensure you receive the justice your child deserves. Call Shea Law Group today at (877) 365-0040.

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