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What is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s palsy, sometimes referred to as brachial plexus palsy, is a type of injury in which a network of nerves in the neck and upper chest (known as the brachial plexus) is injured. The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that supply feeling and control to the child's shoulder and arm. The injury results in a loss of movement and feeling in the arm, hand and fingers. This type of injury can occur during childbirth, if the baby's shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother's pubic bone, and the appropriate delivery techniques are not used to deliver the baby. Although an Erb’s palsy injury can occur at any time, most cases of Erb’s palsy are the result of injuries that happen during the birthing process.

One to two of every 1,000 babies are afflicted by Erb’s palsy. The prognosis for these babies depends largely on the type of injury sustained.  In time, and with proper treatment and therapy, most infants who suffer an Erb’s palsy injury will recover full use of their affected arms.

Types of Erb’s Palsy Injuries

Neurapraxia injuries (in which when the nerve has been damaged but not torn) typically heal within three months of birth without assistance. In more serious cases of Erb’s palsy, weakness and loss of feeling may persist. Physical therapy may be an option. If no significant improvement in arm strength is seen within three to six months of age, corrective surgery may be required.

In the case of nerve ruptures and avulsions -- the most serious types of nerve injury seen with Erb’s palsy -- it may be possible to repair a rupture by grafting a nerve from another nerve in the child's body. Although it is not possible to repair a tear from the spinal cord, nerve grafts may help to restore some function in the arm.

Learn more about the symptoms of Erb’s palsy.

Learn more about what causes Erb’s palsy.

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