After a child is diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, he or she faces a long road ahead full of doctor visits, physical therapy and possible surgery. On top of the mounting bills that follow, families must deal with the heartbreak of a lifelong condition that could have been prevented.
To determine the severity of a child’s Erb’s palsy, a physician may order an X-ray, electromyography (EMG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or computerized tomography (CT) scan. If the results show that the brachial plexus nerves have been torn from the spine, a conversation about surgery may follow.
To care for the affected arm, babies with Erb’s palsy need to be held and positioned in a certain way through infancy. Dressing, feeding and bathing also require special attention, and parents may have to exercise the child to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion. These activities are imperative to some infants, so they can reach normal milestones such as rolling over. A child may then require physical therapy into adulthood to maintain best use of his or her arm.
Erb’s palsy treatment may include:
- Nerve surgery
- Tendon transplant surgery
- Plastic surgery
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Hydrotherapy
- Muscle and joint flexibility exercises
Families shouldn’t be left to endure the stress and bills that accompany Erb’s palsy treatment. An experienced advocate can help. Contact our firm for assistance if your child was diagnosed with Erb’s palsy.