Birth Injuries: Erb's Palsy Diagnosis
Most babies suffering from Erb's Palsy (aka Brachial Plexus birth palsy) recover by themselves. However, if it is known for definite that your baby suffered from the condition at birth then he will be examined at regular intervals to ensure the nerves are healing as expected. Parents of children with Brachial Plexus are shown special exercises to help protect the baby's joints and to ensure the arm heals properly.
Brachial plexus injuries are usually diagnosed by a paediatrician who will examine your baby, looking for any weakness in the arms. An X-ray or scan may be used to help determine whether or not there is any damage to the baby's bones and his neck and shoulder joints will be carefully scrutinised. Electromyogram (EMG) or nerve conduction study (NCS) tests may also be undertaken to examine the presence or lack of nerve signals in the muscle of the upper arm.
In some instances children who have suffered from Erb's Palsy will have one arm shorter than the other. This is partly because the affected arm is not used as frequently as the unaffected arm but also because normal undamaged nerves have an effect on growth. The arm will continue to grow for as long as the child does but unfortunately the difference in length is permanent.
Related Erb's Palsy Articles
Further Information about Erb's Palsy
Information about Erb's Palsy/ Brachial plexus is available from EPG
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