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Erb's Palsy
Erb’s Palsy - or brachial plexus palsy - occurs when there is nerve damage to the brachial plexus (a bundle of nerves). In 90 percent of cases, Erb’s Palsy is caused by traumatic stretching of the infant's plexus during birth. Sometimes during labor and birth, a baby’s shoulder can get stuck on the mother’s pelvic bone. This is known as shoulder dystocia and there are several ways in which a doctor may deal with this emergency if it occurs. While attempting to dislodge the baby, the doctor supports the baby’s head and applies a small amount of traction. If too much traction is used on the head of the baby, the brachial plexus nerves in the baby’s neck may be injured, resulting in Erb’s Palsy.
Possible factors showing that a doctor’s negligence contributed to the onset of Erb’s Palsy include: failure to estimate the baby's weight before delivery, failure to perform a c section, failure to inform parents of the risks inherent in vaginally delivering a large infant, and failure to perform appropriate delivery techniques to manage shoulder dystocia.
Some sufferers of Erb’s Palsy have no muscle control and no feeling in their arms or hands. Some can move their arms, but have little control over the wrist and hand. Still others can use their hands well, but cannot use the shoulder or elbow.
If you or someone you know suffers from Erb’s Palsy, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Please fill out the form below for a free evaluation of your claim by an experienced attorney. There is no cost or obligation for this service.
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