Erb's Palsy Law Firm

A child with Erb's Palsy can cause devastating problems for families. If you believe that medical negligence caused your child's brachial injuries at birth, contact an erb's Palsy law firm for a no-cost consultation.

An attorney will look over the case and calculate the estimated case value by determining future medical costs. This will help establish the value of your claim for any settlement.

Causes

Erb's Palsy occurs when a bundle (the brachialplexus) of nerves in the neck is damaged. These nerves control arm, shoulder and hand movements, as well as sensation. People suffering from the condition experience weakness, numbness, or paralysis in one arm or shoulder.

This condition may result from various medical mistakes during labor and birth for example, forceps usage or a C-section that was performed too early or a doctor using a vacuum extractor improperly during vaginal birth. The majority of cases of erb's palsy can be avoided. Doctors, nurses and midwives and other medical professionals, have a duty to ensure a high level of care in the birthing area. They must ensure that the baby's shoulders are delivered via the vaginal canal and they do not become stuck or get lodged in the mother's pelvic bone.

Some researchers suggest that Erb's palsy may be due to contractions during pregnancy or the position of pregnant women. These theories haven't been proved. To win a case of medical malpractice, plaintiffs need to prove that the doctor's omission from the accepted standard of care caused their injuries.

If you suspect that your child suffered from an preventable erb's palsy injury, a birth injury lawyer can help you seek justice. A successful lawsuit can be awarded to your family financially compensation to help pay for the medical expenses of your child as well as give you a sense of closure.

Diagnosis

Erb's Palsy is caused due to injury to the brachialplexus which is a system of nerves that run through the arm and shoulder. These nerves can become stretched or torn during a difficult delivery. This condition can cause weakness or paralysis of the affected arm. Doctors are responsible for diagnosing this condition as quickly as they can.

The most frequent reason for this is difficulties during childbirth. It usually happens when the fetus is bigger than the normal size for vaginal birth, or when the baby's shoulders become stuck during delivery. This is known as shoulder dystocia. It is a major risk factor for Erb's palsy.

If a doctor makes use of excessive force or fails to detect the shoulder dystocia it can lead to injury of the upper nerves in the brachial plexus. This causes Erb's Palsy. If the doctor's negligence was to blame, he or she can be held responsible for any damage that may be permanent.

To successfully file a medical malpractice case you must prove that the doctor's deviation from the accepted practice led to your injuries. In the event that your child has Erb's Palsy and you want to prove that the doctor was negligent or acted in a way that resulted in injury to the Brachial Plexus nerves. This is a typical claim that can result in a significant award and lifetime treatment for your child.

Treatment

In most instances, it is better to treat and diagnose the problem whenever possible. If it is not treated the condition could lead to permanent tightening of muscles (contractures) or even complete or partial paralysis. The most commonly used form of treatment is physical therapy and occasionally surgery.

Marc J. Bern & Partners, a seasoned Erb's Palsy law firm, examines possible lawsuits and claims on behalf of children who have been diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury triggered by medical negligence in the birth in the United States. We encourage families to request a free consultation and assessment of their claim.

While nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals are trained to deliver babies safely there are a variety of complications that can occur. A physician must act quickly to ensure the safety both of the mother and child when these issues occur. Unfortunately, some health care professionals fail to take this step.

In a difficult delivery one may need to apply some force to aid the baby move through the birth canal. This can cause the baby's nerves be damaged in the event that the neck gets stretched.

Doctors may utilize a variety tests, including Xrays and ultrasounds, as well as a physical examination to determine the severity of the injury and the extent of the nerve damage. A doctor can also prescribe various medications to ease discomfort and pain, and occupational or physical therapy to aid in restoring movement.

Compensation

The costs of medical treatment for a child with erb's palsy lawyer palsy is often high. A successful lawsuit may help a family to afford the treatment they need. A lawyer who is experienced in the field of Erb's Psy will maximize the compensation that the family receives.

When a child is diagnosed with the condition Erb's palsy, it can affect every aspect of their life. It could hinder their ability to work, it may limit the amount time they spend with their parents and it can cause emotional trauma.

Erb's palsy law claims can be made for the cost of treatment, the loss of earnings, and the effect that the injury will affect a child's capacity to engage in daily activities. Claims can also be made for the discomfort and suffering caused by the injury. The amount paid will reflect the severity of the injury.

A successful claim will show that the obstetrician or hospital was negligent. This is demonstrated by proving that there was a deviation from the standard practice and that the deviation directly resulted in your child's injury. Every case is unique and it can take time to settle an Erb's palsy lawsuit. It is crucial to contact an attorney sooner rather than later to ensure they don't miss the deadline to file the lawsuit. A lawsuit filed after the deadline could be barred under the Statute of Limitations.