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WHAT
IS THE BRACHIAL PLEXUS ? |
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The
brachial plexus is a network of nerves. It conducts signals
from the spine to the arm and hand. These signals cause
the arm and hand muscles to move. (Brachial means arm,
and plexus refers to a network of nerves.) |
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WHAT
CAUSES BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURIES ? |
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Stretching,
tearing, or other trauma can cause injury to the nerves
of the brachial plexus. Brachial plexus injuries most
often occur during the birthing process (Obstetrical Brachial
Plexus Injury) as a result of excessive traction or force
being applied to the infant's head during delivery. |
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Approximately
2-3 or every 1000 newborns are affected by brachial plexus
birth injuries. More children suffer from brachial plexus
injuries sustained at birth than Down's Syndrome or Muscular
Dystrophy - yet information on this disability is not
so readily obtained. Other frequent causes of brachial
plexus injuries include: automobile, motorcycle or boating
accidents; sports injuries; animal bites; and gunshot
or puncture wounds. |
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WHAT
ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF OBPP ? |
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Symptoms
may include a limp or paralyzed arm, lack of muscle control
in the arm, hand, or wrist, and lack of feeling or sensation
in the arm or hand. |
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In
case of Erb's palsy involving the upper trunks shoulder
and elbow muscles are paralysed. Child holds the upper
limb in typical posture with houlder turned inside and
elbow straight. In case of the Klumpke's palsy involving
lower trunks the hand and wrist movements are paralysed.
Some children may have involvement of both upper and lower
trunks. |
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WHAT
TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURIES? |
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It
is essential that treatment for a brachial plexus injury
be obtained as soon as possible from qualified, experienced
medical professionals who specialize in treating brachial
plexus injuries. |
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Early
treatment for brachial plexus injuries most likely will
include occupational and/or physical therapy to help maximize
use of the affected arm while preventing contactures (tightening
of the muscles and joints). |
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While
each brachial plexus injury is unique, some individuals
may benefit form surgery. Highly specialized and experienced
surgeons utilize a variety of operative approaches in
attempting to maximize an individual's function. Infants
with brachial plexus birth injuries who show little or
no improvement by the age of 4-6 month are often candidates
for immediate surgery. |
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Older
children and adults may benefit from different surgical
techniques as well such as muscle releases, tendon transfers
and bone surgeries. |
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It
is important to note that even with ongoing therapy treatment
and surgical intervention, complete recovery from a brachial
plexus injury may not occur. Maximizing functional use
of the injured arm in generally the overall goal of affected
individuals, families and medical professionals. |
