What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury During Birth?

If your baby isn’t moving one arm or seems to favor one side, it might be more than just a quirk. These signs could point to a brachial plexus injury, a serious but often preventable birth injury that affects the shoulder and arm. The most well-known form? Erb’s Palsy.

What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?

The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves near the neck that controls the arm, shoulder, and hand. If these nerves are stretched, compressed, or torn during childbirth, the baby can suffer partial or complete paralysis in the affected arm.

What Causes Brachial Plexus Injuries in Newborns?

The most common cause is shoulder dystocia—when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone during delivery. If medical professionals apply excessive force, twist the baby’s head or neck, or delay emergency procedures, nerves can be damaged.

Other risk factors include:

• High birth weight (macrosomia)
• Prolonged second stage of labor
• Breech presentation
• Maternal obesity or diabetes
• Use of forceps or vacuum extraction

⚠️ These injuries are often preventable with proper obstetric care.

Types of Brachial Plexus Injuries

• Neuropraxia: Mild stretching, usually heals on its own
• Neuroma: Nerve damage with scar tissue
• Rupture: Torn nerve, not at the spinal cord
• Avulsion: Complete nerve root detachment from the spine (most severe)

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

• One arm hanging limp or not moving
• Weak grip on the affected side
• No Moro/startle reflex on one side
• Difficulty raising the arm or flexing the elbow
• Favoring the other arm consistently

Diagnosis and Testing

Doctors may use:

• Physical exams
• MRI, CT, or ultrasound
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Ongoing monitoring of motor function and developmental progress

Treatment and Long-Term Prognosis

Many babies recover with early intervention, but more severe injuries may require:

• Physical therapy to rebuild strength
• Occupational therapy for daily use
• Botox or surgical intervention (nerve grafts or transfers)

Children with lasting nerve damage may face long-term limitations in mobility and self-care. That’s why prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Can I File a Lawsuit for a Brachial Plexus Injury?

Absolutely—if your child’s injury was caused by improper medical care. Hospitals, OB-GYNs, and delivery teams have a duty to:

• Recognize shoulder dystocia risk factors
• Use safe delivery techniques
• Act quickly to prevent nerve damage

If they failed you, we’ll fight for you.

See how Merson Law has helped parents pursue justice in Erb’s Palsy lawsuits.

What Damages Can I Recover?

• Past and future medical bills
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of future earning potential
• Emotional distress

Talk to a Birth Injury Lawyer in New York Today

Time matters. In New York, you have a limited window to take legal action. Our team has the experience, resources, and compassion to help you fight back.

📞 Contact Merson Law today for a confidential case review.

FAQ: Brachial Plexus Injuries

Can these injuries heal on their own?
Mild cases often resolve in weeks or months. Severe injuries may require long-term therapy or surgery.

Is Erb’s Palsy permanent?
It can be. The severity of the nerve damage determines whether full recovery is possible.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in NY?
Generally, you have 2.5 years for medical malpractice claims, but shorter deadlines may apply for minors. Speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.

Reviewed by Jordan Merson, Founding Attorney at Merson Law PLLC