Erb’s palsy is a type of birth injury that can result in temporary or permanent weakness or paralysis of a newborn’s arm. Forceful delivery could compress, stretch, or tear the delicate nerves of the baby’s shoulder, affecting the movement of the upper arm and the rotation of the lower arm. While some babies with Erb’s palsy recover within a few months with therapy and regular follow-ups, others may require expensive surgery in order to treat the injury. Permanent injuries can significantly affect a child’s future, hindering their ability to work or perform other activities. The affected arm may remain smaller for the rest of the person’s life as a result of the lack of movement.

The following are some risk factors that may lead to Erb’s palsy:

  • Unusually large babies
  • Overweight mothers
  • Diabetes during pregnancy
  • Abnormal maternal pelvic structure
  • Long second stage of labor
  • Deliveries past the estimated due date
  • Improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors

Doctors and midwives are trained to recognize and react to complications that may result in Erb’s palsy. However, when healthcare professionals fail to anticipate complications or try too forcefully to extract a baby whose arm has gotten stuck on the mother’s pelvic bone during delivery, they may be guilty of medical malpractice.

When Erb’s palsy is caused or contributed to by medical negligence, the victim is entitled to pursue compensation for their losses, including medical bills, permanent or partial disability, pain and suffering, and loss of income. It is important to work with an experienced medical malpractice attorney who knows how to handle these types of difficult cases. Medical malpractice cases require exhaustive research and particular legal knowledge and should be handled by someone who has successfully handled medical malpractice lawsuits in the past.

If you suspect that your child’s Erb’s palsy has been caused by medical negligence, contact a Tampa medical malpractice attorney at The Florida Law Group to schedule a consultation. We are prepared to guide you through the legal process in pursuit of the justice you deserve.

Contact us today to get started on your case.