What are Brachial Plexus Injuries?
Brachial plexus nerves are the extremely complex system of nerves that control the shoulder, arm and hand. A brachial plexus injury occurs when those nerves are severely strained or torn. This can happen to a child during the birthing process or later in life in a sports related injury.
Symptoms
The child’s arm may appear to be limp or paralyzed. They may display a lack of muscle control in the arm, hand, or wrist, and lack of feeling or sensation in the arm or hand.
How to Treat Brachial Plexus Injuries
Some brachial plexus injuries will heal on their own after a few months. Others may require physical therapy or surgery.
At Hopkins Children’s, the Divisions of Orthopedics, Neurology and Neurosurgery treat Brachial Plexus Injuries.