Understanding Erb’s Palsy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Erb’s Palsy, also known as Erb-Duchenne Palsy, is a condition that affects the movement and strength of a child’s arm due to an injury to the brachial plexus nerves. This network of nerves, located near the neck, controls the muscles of the shoulder, arm, and hand. Erb’s Palsy typically occurs during childbirth when there is excessive pulling or stretching of the baby’s head and neck. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Erb’s Palsy.

Causes of Erb’s Palsy:

Erb’s Palsy often results from difficulties during a challenging birth. Factors that can increase the risk of Erb’s Palsy include:
Large Babies: When a baby is larger than average (macrosomia), there is a higher chance of getting stuck in the birth canal, leading to injury.
Breech Presentation: Babies in a breech position (feet-first) have a higher risk of experiencing shoulder dystocia during birth.
Prolonged Labor: Long and difficult labors can put excessive stress on the baby’s head and neck.
Assisted Delivery: The use of forceps or vacuum extraction during delivery can cause trauma to the brachial plexus nerves.

Symptoms of Erb’s Palsy:

The symptoms of Erb’s Palsy vary depending on the severity of the nerve injury. Common symptoms include:
Weakness: Affected babies may have limited or no movement in the affected arm.
Loss of Muscle Control: Muscle control and coordination may be compromised in the arm, shoulder, and hand.
Numbness: Sensation loss in the affected arm or hand.
Abnormal Positioning: The arm may hang limply by the side with the forearm turned inward (pronated) and the wrist flexed.
Lack of Reflexes: Absence of certain reflexes in the affected arm.

Treatment Options for Erb’s Palsy:

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in the treatment of Erb’s Palsy. Treatment options include:
Physical Therapy: For less severe cases, physical therapy plays a vital role in improving muscle strength, range of motion, and coordination. Our therapists design targeted exercises to gradually restore function and alleviate pain.
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists focus on helping children develop fine motor skills and perform daily activities.
Brachial Plexus Surgery: In more complex cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. The type of surgery depends on the severity and location of the injury. Surgical options can include nerve repair, nerve grafting, or nerve transfer procedures.
Nerve Transfers: Nerve transfer surgery involves rerouting a functional nerve to the injured area to restore movement and sensation.

Coping and Support:
Caring for a child with Erb’s Palsy can be challenging. However, with the right support and resources, children can lead fulfilling lives. Parents can join support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges and share experiences. Occupational and physical therapists provide guidance to help children adapt and develop essential skills.

Preventing Erb’s Palsy:

While not all cases of Erb’s Palsy can be prevented, there are steps that can reduce the risk. Prenatal care, regular check-ups, and open communication with our specialists are essential. In cases where a larger baby is anticipated, our specialists at Zia Medical Center in Dubai can discuss the potential risks and explore delivery options. As Erb’s Palsy is a condition that affects the arm’s movement and strength due to brachial plexus nerve injury during childbirth, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment play a significant role in improving outcomes. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery are among the treatment options available. With the right support and resources, children with Erb’s Palsy can achieve their full potential and lead active lives. It’s important for parents and caregivers to collaborate with our specialists to ensure the best possible care and quality of life for those affected by this condition.