Brachial Plexus Injuries & Erb’s Palsy

Brachial Plexus Injuries & Erb’s Palsy Lawyer

Fertility Law Group – Advocates for Families Facing Birth Injuries

At Fertility Law Group, our birth injury lawyers understand the overwhelming emotions parents experience when their child suffers a preventable birth injury. The uncertainty about the future, the medical treatments, and the lifelong implications can feel daunting. We have dedicated our practice to supporting families to ensure children get the care they need while holding negligent doctors and hospitals accountable.

One of the most common yet often preventable birth injuries is brachial plexus injury, which includes Erb’s palsy and Klumpke’s palsy. These injuries occur when the delicate nerves controlling the baby’s arm and hand are damaged during delivery, often due to excessive force. Some children recover, but others face lifelong weakness, paralysis, and chronic pain.

What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that runs from the spinal cord through the neck, shoulder, and into the arm and hand. These nerves control movement and sensation in the upper limbs. When stretched, compressed, or torn during birth, it can cause permanent disability.

 

Types of Brachial Plexus Injuries:

  • Erb’s Palsy – The most common form, affecting the upper brachial plexus nerves, leading to weakness or paralysis in the shoulder and upper arm.
  • Klumpke’s Palsy – Affects the lower brachial plexus, causing weakness or paralysis in the hand and wrist.
  • Neuropraxia – A mild stretch injury where nerves are damaged but not torn. Many babies recover with therapy.
  • Neuroma – Scar tissue forms around a stretched nerve, causing permanent weakness and loss of function.
  • Rupture or Avulsion – The most severe injuries occur when the nerve tears or is completely pulled from the spinal cord, leading to lifelong paralysis.

How Do Brachial Plexus Injuries Happen?

 

In many cases, these injuries could have been prevented if doctors had followed proper delivery protocols. Medical negligence is often a factor when excessive force is used or when doctors fail to address known risk factors.

Common Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries Due to Medical Malpractice:

  • Improper Handling of Shoulder Dystocia – If the baby’s shoulders become stuck in the birth canal, doctors must use precise, gentle techniques to avoid injury. Forcing the baby out improperly can overstretch or tear the nerves.
  • Excessive Force During Delivery – Pulling too hard on the baby’s head or using excessive traction can severely damage the brachial plexus.
  • Misuse of Forceps or Vacuum Extraction – If improperly applied, these delivery tools can cause severe nerve damage.
  • Failure to Perform a Necessary C-Section – If doctors delay a C-section despite clear risks, they can be held responsible for the resulting injury.
  • Undiagnosed Maternal Risk Factors – Large babies (macrosomia), prolonged labor, and breech births increase the risk of nerve injuries. Doctors must anticipate these risks and plan delivery accordingly.

Get Help Now

If you have questions about your rights or your options, please contact us for a free consultation. There is no obligation and we keep all inquiries strictly confidential.

Long-Term Effects and Treatment for Brachial Plexus Injuries

Some children recover with therapy, while others face lifelong disability and chronic pain. The extent of recovery depends on the severity of nerve damage and the quality of early intervention.

 

Treatment Options for Brachial Plexus Injuries:

  • Physical Therapy – Early intervention is critical. Daily exercises help prevent joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and loss of function.
  • Occupational Therapy – Helps children adapt to daily tasks despite limited arm or hand movement.
  • Surgery – Severe cases may require nerve grafts, muscle transfers, or tendon surgeries to restore function.
  • Botox & Medication – Used to reduce muscle stiffness and pain.
  • Adaptive Devices – Braces, splints, and assistive technology can help children gain independence.

 

The Emotional and Financial Burden on Families

The journey for families dealing with a brachial plexus injury is often long and emotionally exhausting. The costs of therapy, surgery, and specialized care add up quickly. Many parents must adjust their careers or leave their jobs entirely to care for their child.

We understand how overwhelming this can be, which is why we are committed to fighting for full compensation—not just for medical bills, but for everything your child will need to thrive.

Why Holding Negligent Doctors and Hospitals Accountable Matters

When a doctor’s mistake causes lifelong harm, families have a right to justice and financial support. A birth injury lawsuit isn’t just about compensation—it’s about:

  • Ensuring your child gets the best medical care, therapy, and support
  • Holding doctors and hospitals accountable for their actions
  • Preventing similar mistakes from harming other families
  • Providing for your child’s future, including special education and long-term care

At Fertility Law Group, we specialize in birth injury cases. We work closely with medical experts, life care planners, and financial specialists to determine exactly what your child will need—and fight to make sure you receive it. 

How We Can Help – Our Commitment to Your Family

We know that no amount of money can undo the harm caused, but a successful lawsuit can ease the financial burden and ensure your child has access to the best possible care. We handle everything—from investigating medical records to building a case with top specialists—so you can focus on your child.

 

Why Families Trust The Birth Injury Lawyers at Fertility Law Group

  • We Understand What You’re Going Through – We’ve helped many families in similar situations, and we know how daunting this process feels. You don’t have to go through this alone.
  • We Specialize in Birth Injury Cases – This isn’t just one area of law we handle—we focus on holding doctors accountable for preventable birth injuries.
  • We Work With Top Medical Experts – We partner with leading neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and therapists to build the strongest case for your child.
  • No Upfront Costs – You Only Pay If We Win – We work on a contingency basis because your family deserves justice without financial risk.

Contact Us For a Free Confidential Consultation

If your child suffered a brachial plexus injury due to medical malpractice, you deserve answers and accountability. At Fertility Law Group, our birth injury lawyers are committed to fighting for your child’s future and your family’s peace of mind. Please contact us to schedule a free, confidential consultation, where we can speak to you with compassion and answer your questions.