The birth of a child should be a joyful experience for families. When complications during labor and delivery result in a preventable injury, however, parents may be left facing uncertainty, emotional distress, and concerns about their child’s future. One birth injury that can occur during difficult deliveries is Erb’s palsy.
Understanding what Erb’s palsy is, how it develops, and when medical negligence may be involved can help families make informed decisions about protecting their child’s future.
What Is Erb’s Palsy?
Erb’s palsy is a condition that affects the brachial plexus, a network of nerves located near the shoulder that controls movement and sensation in the arm, shoulder, and hand.
When these nerves are stretched, compressed, or torn during childbirth, a child may experience weakness or loss of movement in the affected arm. The severity of the condition can vary depending on the extent of the nerve damage.
Some children recover fully with treatment, while others may experience long-term complications.
How Does Erb’s Palsy Occur During Birth?
Erb’s palsy is often associated with difficult deliveries. Certain circumstances can increase the risk of excessive force being placed on a baby’s neck and shoulder area during birth.
Potential risk factors may include:
- Shoulder dystocia
- Large birth weight
- Breech presentation
- Prolonged labor
- Assisted deliveries involving forceps or vacuum extraction
- Maternal diabetes
While complications can arise even when healthcare providers act appropriately, some cases involve preventable mistakes that increase the likelihood of injury.
Signs and Symptoms of Erb’s Palsy
Parents may notice signs of Erb’s palsy shortly after birth. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury.
Common signs may include:
- Weakness in one arm
- Limited shoulder movement
- Lack of arm motion
- Reduced grip strength
- An arm that appears limp or hangs at the side
- Abnormal positioning of the arm
Medical evaluation is important whenever a newborn shows signs of nerve injury.
Treatment and Long-Term Outlook
Treatment often depends on the extent of the nerve damage. Many children benefit from physical therapy and occupational therapy designed to improve strength, mobility, and function.
In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. Early intervention is often important because treatment can help maximize recovery and reduce long-term limitations.
While some children recover completely, others may experience permanent weakness, limited range of motion, or developmental challenges affecting the injured arm.
When Might Medical Negligence Be Involved?
Not every case of Erb’s palsy results from negligence. However, healthcare providers are expected to recognize delivery risks and respond appropriately to protect both mother and child.
Potential concerns may arise when providers fail to:
- Properly assess delivery risks
- Monitor labor complications
- Respond appropriately to shoulder dystocia
- Recommend a cesarean delivery when necessary
- Use delivery instruments safely
- Apply excessive force during delivery
When preventable mistakes contribute to a birth injury, families may have grounds to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
Damages Families May Face
The effects of a serious birth injury can extend far beyond the delivery room. Families may face ongoing expenses and challenges related to their child’s care.
Potential damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Future medical treatment
- Adaptive equipment
- Loss of earning capacity in severe cases
- Emotional and psychological impacts on the family
Evaluating these losses often requires a careful review of both current and anticipated future needs.
Why Early Investigation Matters
Birth injury cases can involve extensive medical records, expert analysis, and detailed investigations into what occurred during labor and delivery. Preserving evidence and understanding the circumstances surrounding the injury can be important when evaluating potential legal claims.
Parents who have concerns about a preventable birth injury may benefit from seeking legal guidance as soon as possible.
Helping Families Move Forward
Learning that a child has suffered a birth injury can be overwhelming. Families often have questions about what happened, what treatment options are available, and whether the injury could have been prevented.
San Antonio Birth Injury Lawyers
If your child has been diagnosed with Erb’s palsy and you believe medical negligence may have played a role, contact Maloney Law Group, P.L.L.C. at (210) 361-2997. Our team can review your situation and help you better understand your legal options.