Erb’s Palsy Birth Injuries Are Devastating

Parents are usually overjoyed with the birth of their child. That joy can quickly be replaced with anguish and unhappiness when their child suffers an injury during birth. Birth injuries may cause a number of medical problems that range from mild to severe and some are life-threatening. Of the most serious medical problems, Erb’s palsy birth injuries are among the most devastating.

What Causes Erb’s Palsy Birth Injuries

The body has a bundle of nerves located near the shoulders. This is called the brachial plexus. The area has many important tendons and connections between the limbs and the brain. If the brachial plexus is injured it can damage the nerves which may result in an injury such as Erb’s palsy. Damage may occur in instances where the doctor must assist in the birth by pulling the baby. When the pulling is extreme or when twisting occurs, the baby can be seriously hurt.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s palsy is the paralysis or weakness of the arm and hand. The baby will immediately exhibit signs of weakness on one side of the body and may be unable to lift or move the arm. A thorough examination must be completed to determine how severe the injury is. In some cases the infant will improve over time while in other cases the damage is too severe and cannot be healed. If the tendons are no longer adequately connected there is little that can be done to improve the condition.

After a Birth Injury Occurs

A birth injury such as Erb’s palsy is a serious medical condition and one that may require a great deal of expensive medical treatment. Additionally, the child may suffer a lifelong disability. The costs involved in treatment of a birth injury can be astronomical. The family of the infant may be entitled to compensation to cover the medical costs, care, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life among other damages.

Compensation for Birth Injury Costs

The costs associated with the care and treatment of an infant with birth injuries should be the responsibility of the negligent doctor. The doctor should be careful during the birth of the baby and when a serious injury occurs it may be due to medical malpractice. If your baby suffered Erb’s palsy or a serious birth injury contact the experienced attorneys at Udall Shumway to discuss your options.

 

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding Erb’s Palsy Birth Injuries, or any other personal injury, please feel free to contact Brian T. Allen at  480.461.5335,  log on to udallshumway.com,  or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.