Erb’s Palsy: A Devastating Birth Injury
Clore Law ·According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), one or two out of every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. has Erb's Palsy. In most cases, symptoms of this birth injury disappear within the first few months of the baby's life. Unfortunately, when the infant doesn't heal on their own, the prognosis is often grim.
What is Erb's Palsy? The term "palsy" refers to paralysis, weakness or tremors in any part of the body, which is frequently brought about by some type of nerve damage. In this case, Dr. Wilhelm Erb was one of the first doctors to take note of the condition. Although a victim of Erb's Palsy may have other disorders caused by the same event as well, this condition specifically relates to an issue with the brachial plexus, or nerves of the upper arm. How Erb's Palsy is Diagnosed The condition is usually first noticed when a newborn does not move one arm, but can move his fingers or hands. Although some doctors will still refer to it as Erb's Palsy if the infant does not move his hand as well, this is usually indicative, more severe, or global, nerve damage. Babies who have Erb's Palsy routinely show the following symptoms:- Absence of the Moro reflex, also called the startle reflex, but only on the affected arm
- A tightly flexed or bent arm, held snugly against the body
- Decreased grip strength of the hand on the affected side
Charleston Birth Injury Attorney
Because Erb's Palsy can require a lifetime of care, it's essential that you seek legal representation as soon as you have a diagnosis. Most often, obtaining a lawyer helps to ensure the medical team provides the best possible care after the injury, which increases the likelihood of full recovery. A court may also award reparations for medical bills, a parents' time away from work, pain and suffering, and long-term care or therapy, among other things. If your child was injured due to a doctor's actions, or failure to act, please contact our law firm. Our online formis available, or you may speak with one of our lawyers now by calling 1(800)610-2546.Contact Us
Clore Law Group welcomes your questions about any issues concerning a serious personal injury, car accident, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, business tort, or workplace injury. If you have a viable claim, we’ll explain the legal process. Since consultations are always free, there’s no cost in learning your legal options.