erb's palsy law firm cedar rapids Can Help You Make an Erb's Palsy Claim
Erb's Palsy is caused by nerve damage in the arm, shoulder and hand. It can cause paralysis, as well as other problems.
The birth injury could be caused by medical negligence. This birth injury is usually related to a difficult or premature delivery.
Causes
Most pregnancies and births are a breeze, however on the rare occasion something goes wrong. Hudgell Solicitors will assist you in the event that your child suffers an impairment that was caused by medical negligence such as Erb's palsy.
Erb's Palsy is a weakness of varying degrees or paralysis in the shoulder and arms, that affects the brachial nerves. These nerves are responsible for sending electrical messages to the muscles to allow them move. Brachialplexus injuries can result in the inability to move and grasp the hand affected by the injury.
There are a number of causes of Erb's syndrome. It can be caused by shoulder dystocia an complication of labour that happens when the baby's skull gets stuck above the mother's pubic bone. It is more frequent in women with risk factors, such as gestational diabetes, babies that are too big or overweight. Shoulder dystocia can be a medical emergency. It is vital for doctors to recognize this and be aware of what to do to prevent complications. It can also be caused by the use of forceps or the use of a vacuum extractor during labor or through an emergency Cesarean section.
Signs and symptoms
Erb's palsy symptoms include a lack of motion in the affected arm or hand and a weak grip. Symptoms typically appear six to twelve months after the birth.
The brachialplexus is a network of nerves which runs from the spine to both sides of the neck. It regulates motion and sensation of the fingers, arm and hand. If damaged, these nerves can cause weakness and partial paralysis of the affected arm and/or hand.
It is usually caused by birth-related medical errors. For instance the doctor pushing on the baby's shoulders too hard (shoulder dystocia). It can also occur when the baby is placed in the 'waiter' position during delivery which places strain on the C5-C6 upper trunk nerve system, which forms part of the Brachial Plexus.
Most infants who suffer a stretch injury will recover within six to 12 months. However, some cases are so severe that they require surgery to repair the damaged nerves. If the nerves that are damaged are not repaired, a child could have permanent disabilities that limit their ability to move their arm.
Diagnosis
For children who suffer from Erb's Palsy there are a number of treatments to reduce the effects, however the injury can never be fully repaired. Some infants are left with a significant disability and cannot move their hands, arms or fingers.
The symptoms result from injury to the brachial plexus, which provides all the muscles of the upper limb with the exception for the trapezius. The injury usually affects the upper nerves C5 & C6 but less frequently affects C7. This causes the classic Erb's Palsy sign, which is a waiter tip-like hand which is unable to pronate nor flex the forearm. In some cases the injured nerves can also cause Horner's syndrome, which is a drooping of the pupil and a chin that is constricted.
You can sue for medical negligence when your child is suffering from Erb's Palsy due to the birth. This is because the condition is usually caused by excessive force being applied to the baby during birth. This can include using the vacuum extraction (ventouse) or forceps in a way that is not properly. It could also be the doctor not managing shoulder dystocia correctly or deciding to give birth via vaginal birth or breech when a more conventional caesarean delivery would be more appropriate.
Treatment
The nerves that comprise the brachial nerve control movements and sensations in the hand and arm. If the baby is diagnosed with Erb's Palsy, it means the nerves have been injured. Most babies recover within 6 to 12 months but some suffer from a permanent disability affecting the movement and sensation of their arm.
Physical therapy is used to increase range of motion. Passive exercises and stretching can be used to accomplish this. A physiotherapist can also suggest an extension splint, which can help with movement and prevent stiffness. In severe cases, a nerve graft could be needed to rebuild damaged nerves.
A claim for compensation may assist a child suffering an Erb's Palsy injury live life to the fullest and access essential equipment, care, education and support. If you believe that your child's Palsy was the result of an error in medical treatment during their birth, you might be able file a claim for financial damages.
Compensation
A successful lawsuit could provide families with financial compensation for the treatment of their child. It may also provide them with satisfaction and draw attention to medical professionals who could have prevented a brachial plexus injury.
Settlements in Erb's Palsy lawsuits will pay for physiotherapy and any other equipment or treatments needed to help your child's condition. You may also be able to receive compensation for any loss of income or earnings due to the impairment of your child.
It is recommended to seek out an Erb's Palsy lawyer immediately if you suspect that medical negligence may have been involved. They can give you suggestions on how to proceed and ensure that all paperwork is filed in time. This will increase your chances of obtaining compensation. Our team of experts from Erb's-Palsy can help you get the most money you're entitled. This will help pay for the long-term expenses of your child's disabilities and ensure they have everything they need to lead a fulfilled life.