Florida Brachial Plexus Injury Lawyer

Damage to the Brachial Plexus Network of Nerves

The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that travel from the spine through the shoulder and down into the arm.  These nerves transmit signals from your spinal cord to the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, and fingers.  An infant can suffer an injury to the brachial plexus when the nerves are stretched, torn or compressed during labor and delivery.  While this type of childbirth injury most often affects the upper arm (often referred to as “Erb’s Palsy”), in some cases, the baby will suffer impairment to the lower arm and hand (“Klumpke’s Palsy”) and possibly the entire arm (“global palsy”). Depending upon the location and extent of the injury, the baby may require surgery, medication and/or physical therapy.  Sadly, there are times when the injury is very severe, resulting in a permanent disability.

If your child has suffered a brachial plexus injury during labor and delivery, it is critical to speak with a skilled Florida brachial plexus injury lawyer as soon as possible.  The Florida Law Group has extensive experience handling all types of birth injury claims, including cases involving damage to the brachial plexus nerves. Our attorneys will outline your options and craft a plan of action focused on getting you the compensation you need to help your child live the fullest life possible.

What Causes Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries?

The brachial plexus nerves can be damaged when the infant makes its way through the birth canal, particularly in situations where the labor and delivery are difficult.   Factors that can increase the risk of a brachial plexus injury during childbirth include:

  • Use of forceps or vacuum extraction tool
  • Breech presentation (feet down)
  • Fetal macrosomia (large birth weight and size)
  • Shoulder dystocia
  • Maternal diabetes
  • Maternal obesity
  • Pelvic abnormalities
  • Complicated or prolonged labor and delivery

Signs and Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injuries in Newborns

The signs and symptoms associated with a brachial plexus injury can vary widely and will depend upon the specific location and cause of the injury.  When the injury is minor, the infant may experience temporary weakness, a lack of sensitivity in the affected arm, as well as a burning sensation that travels down the nerves of the arm.   These symptoms generally subside with a short period of time after the injury.  In more serious brachial plexus injuries, the infant may suffer severe burning or crushing pain, muscle weakness, loss of feeling in the affected area, and paralysis of the shoulder, arm, wrist and/or hand.  While the symptoms associated with brachial plexus injuries tend to clear up within a few months post-delivery, some infants may experience long-term or even permanent impairments despite surgery, medication and other medical treatments.

Speak with a Florida Brachial Plexus Injury Lawyer about Your Child’s Injuries Today

Although brachial plexus injuries are not uncommon during labor and delivery, they can lead to lasting problems for an infant.  If your child has suffered a brachial plexus injury, you need to speak with an attorney experienced in handling these types of complicated birth injury cases.  At The Florida Law Group, we believe that doctors, hospitals and other medical providers need to be held responsible when brachial plexus damage is the result of medical negligence.  We encourage you to call our firm today to schedule a free consultation with a Florida brachial plexus injury lawyer.