Atlanta Erb’s Palsy Attorney

What Is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s Palsy, also known as brachial plexus birth palsy, is a condition that affects the network of nerves controlling movement and sensation in a baby’s shoulder, arm, and hand. These nerves — called the brachial plexus — can be stretched, torn, or even completely severed during childbirth.

This injury typically occurs when there’s excessive pulling or pressure on a baby’s head, neck, or shoulders during delivery. The result can range from mild weakness to complete paralysis in the affected arm.

There are several classifications of Erb’s Palsy depending on the severity of the nerve damage:

• Neurapraxia: The nerve is stretched but not torn. Most babies recover fully within months.
• Neuroma: The nerve is damaged and scar tissue forms, causing partial loss of function.
• Rupture: The nerve is torn but not detached from the spine, often requiring surgery.
• Avulsion: The nerve is torn from the spinal cord, resulting in permanent paralysis.

Although some infants improve with therapy and time, others may face a lifetime of disability. That’s why it’s crucial to consult an Atlanta Erb’s Palsy attorney who can determine whether medical negligence played a role in your child’s injury.

Common Causes of Erb’s Palsy Due to Medical Malpractice

While not all cases of Erb’s Palsy result from medical malpractice, many are preventable and occur due to avoidable mistakes made during labor and delivery. Medical professionals have a duty to recognize and properly manage high-risk situations during childbirth. When they fail to meet that standard of care, devastating injuries can result.

Some common examples of medical negligence leading to Erb’s Palsy include:

• Excessive Force During Delivery: Pulling too hard on the baby’s head, neck, or shoulders when shoulder dystocia (when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck) occurs.
• Improper Use of Delivery Tools: Misuse of forceps or vacuum extractors can place undue pressure on the baby’s shoulders or neck.
• Failure to Perform a Timely C-Section: In cases where the baby is large or labor isn’t progressing, a cesarean section may be the safest option. Delaying or failing to perform one can lead to nerve injuries.
• Mismanagement of Shoulder Dystocia: When doctors or nurses don’t follow proper delivery techniques or fail to recognize fetal distress in time.
• Inadequate Monitoring: Failure to monitor maternal and fetal health before and during delivery can increase the risk of complications.

If your child’s injury could have been prevented with appropriate medical care, DGL Attorneys At Law can help you pursue justice. Our Atlanta Erb’s Palsy attorneys have extensive experience investigating complex birth injury claims and identifying the medical errors that caused harm.