San Francisco Brachial Plexus Injury
What is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
Occasionally, during the birthing process, an infant may sustain a birth injury. One of the most common types of birth injuries infants suffer from are brachial plexus injuries. A brachial plexus injury occurs when the network of nerves that extends and sends signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm and hand is seriously damaged.
Usually, brachial plexus injuries occur when force is applied to the neck and shoulder, stretching these body parts in opposing directions. This is common in sports and also during the infant delivery process. For example, during the birthing process, an OBGYN may press down on an infant's shoulder and push the infant's head in the opposite direction. When this happens, the infant may suffer a brachial plexus injury while being forced from his or her mother's birth canal.
Once infants have brachial plexus injuries, they may not be able to move their necks, shoulders, arms, hands or fingers. Sometimes, these injuries will gradually heal with time. Other times, children may require surgery from medical specialists or may be permanently disabled.
Brachial Plexus Side Effects
There are several side effects that may be associated with a brachial plexus injury, including:
After infants sustain brachial plexus injuries, it may not be obvious at first. However, parents may notice that their babies are somewhat immobile or have weak upper extremities. They may then seek medical treatment and learn that their children incurred brachial plexus injuries during the birthing process.
San Francisco Birth Injury Lawyers
If your child sustained a brachial plexus injury in San Francisco, now is the perfect time to speak with our team of knowledgeable litigators. Contact our San Francisco birth injury firm today!