When a baby is born, it’s often at risk of numerous birth injuries. One type of injury that may arise involves the brachial plexus. Whenever a severe injury occurs, it can significantly impact a child’s life. At Maloney Law Group, P.L.L.C., we believe it’s crucial to understand brachial plexus injuries, their causes, and your rights to move forward.
The Brachial Plexus and Potential Injuries
The brachial plexus is a collection of nerves sitting at the baby’s shoulder. The brachial plexus’ responsibility is to carry signals from the body’s spinal cord to the arms and hands, dictating movement and sensory.
In most situations, injuries arise because of trauma to the baby’s neck during the birthing process. The injuries may cause pain, but long-term impacts can involve arm and hand weakness and numbness. Many of these injuries heal over time, but some can involve lifelong problems.
Injuries include:
- Stretching
- Ruptures
- Neuroma (scar tissue from an injury)
- Neuritis (a progressive disorder)
- Avulsion (complete separation from the spinal cord)
Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries
A brachial plexus injury can occur during childbirth if the baby’s head is pulled too hard and stretched away from the shoulder. Typically, it happens if the doctor puts too much pressure on the baby’s head and shoulder, causing tearing, stretching, and other injuries. Doctors must care for the baby in all aspects, protecting the baby from harm.
Unfortunately, doctors can make mistakes and cause significant injuries. A brachial plexus injury can impact the baby’s quality of life and potentially create obstacles moving forward. Our team is here to help.
Our San Antonio birth injury attorneys work to hold negligence accountable and pursue maximum compensation our clients need. Trust that Maloney Law Group, P.L.L.C. will stand in your corner and help you throughout the process. We work to safeguard your rights every step of the way so that you can focus on your baby and family.
