Victims and the parents of victims of birth injuries, including brachial plexus injury, may be able to pursue compensation for their injuries if they are able to prove that their injuries were caused by medical malpractice or negligence.

What is the Brachial Plexus?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that starts in the spinal cord at the neck and continues across the chest and into the armpit. According to Orthoinfo, these nerves control the hand, wrist, shoulder, and elbow, and send signals to these parts of the body that allow them to feel sensation and to move.

What is a Brachial Plexus Injury?

According to the Mayo Clinic, brachial plexus injuries may occur during the birthing process due to a variety of factors. Often, these injuries are caused by the birth of an above average size baby through a small birth canal. These injuries may also occur due to the use of birthing tools. These tools often used during difficult labor, may stretch the shoulder and neck of the baby during birth.

Can Brachial Plexus Injury Heal on its Own?

There are multiple ways that the brachial plexus may be injured during birth, according to Nationwide Children’s. While some brachial plexus injuries may be mild and can heal on their own, some injuries may be severe and require medical intervention. Common injuries include:

• Stretch injuries: These injuries are common and also mild, and generally heal on their own within 4 to 6 weeks. In stretch injuries, the brachial plexus is pulled but not torn.
• Tear or rupture injuries: In these injuries, the nerve is torn, although it remains attached to the spinal cord. Generally, this type of brachial plexus injury requires surgery.
• Scar injuries: When a stretch or tear occurs, a scar may form in the area. In some cases, surgery may be required.
• Avulsion injuries: When an avulsion injury occurs, the nerve is torn and separated from the spinal cord. Surgery is necessary when these serious injuries occur.

What are the Symptoms of a Brachial Plexus Injury?

According to Nationwide Children’s, common symptoms of brachial plexus injuries sustained during birth may include:

• Muscle weakness
• Limited or no movement in the hand, arm, or shoulder
• Limp arm
• Loss of feeling in the hand, arm, or shoulder
• Drooping eyelid
• Constricted pupil in the eye

What Avenues are Available for Victims?

If your child suffered a birth injury such as a brachial plexus injury, you may be eligible to hire a qualified medical malpractice and negligence attorney and file a lawsuit. Victims who file class action lawsuits regarding birth injuries may be able to collect damages for costs including past and future medical bills, pain and suffering, economic damages, future loss of earnings, and the cost of extraordinary medical care, including home caregivers, physical therapy, special education, and other expenses. A birth injury lawyer may be able to help you with your case, and determine whether your child’s birth injuries were caused by negligence or medical malpractice.