What is a brachial plexus injury?

The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that originates from your spine and that controls your shoulder, arm, and hand.  This network is located at fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth cervical spinal nerves, and the first thoracic spinal nerve.  A brachial plexus injury usually consists of tearing or stretching of the nerves in this area, and can be caused by sports, automobile accidents, tumors, inflammation, or falls.  In some cases, brachial plexus injuries can occur at birth. 

Symptoms of a brachial plexus injury include a lack of muscle control in one’s hand, arm, and/or shoulder, uncharacteristic weakness or limpness in one’s arm, total or partial paralysis of an arm, or a loss of feeling in one’s hand and/or arm.

The severity of a brachial plexus injury will typically determine the appropriate treatment.  In the case of a minor brachial plexus injury, where the nerves are simply stretched, often no treatment other than rest and time is necessary.  Other brachial plexus injuries may require physical and/or occupational therapy.  In the case of a more serious brachial plexus injury, however, in which the brachial plexus has actually been torn, surgery may be necessary in order to repair the nerve damage.  The prognosis of a brachial plexus injury also will be dependent on the location and severity of the injury.

For assistance with a personal injury claim involving a brachial plexus injury, you should contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney.