Finding Answers, Demanding Justice

Erb’s Palsy Lawyers Fighting For Justice In Birth Injury Cases

In every birth injury case, there are two main elements. First, there is a component of justice. We trust our doctors to be competent, prepared and ready to handle emergency situations appropriately. If you have been injured because of a doctor’s incompetence, you have suffered a grave injustice. Second, there are the practical considerations. With Erb’s palsy or other catastrophic birth injuries, you will have extra medical costs and the costs associated with accommodating your child’s disability.

For the sake of justice and the sake of your family, you deserve to be compensated.

The Detroit, Michigan, law firm of McKeen & Associates, PC, can help you bring your negligent doctor to justice and obtain the compensation your family needs to get on with your life. We will help you obtain the highest level of financial compensation following a catastrophic injury.

What Is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s palsy is a condition that affects the nerves controlling movement in a newborn’s upper arm, leading to weakness or paralysis. It can occur when a network of nerves near the neck, the brachial plexus, suffers serious damage during birth.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Erb’s Palsy?

Common signs of Erb’s palsy include:

  • A newborn having difficulty moving one arm
  • The baby’s arm being held close to the body
  • An absent startle reflex on the affected side

If you notice these symptoms in your newborn, seeking a medical evaluation is crucial. The earlier you can identify the signs and symptoms of Erb’s palsy in your newborn, the easier it can be to pursue appropriate treatment options.

What Causes Erb’s Palsy In Newborns?

Erb’s palsy often results from complications during delivery, especially when the baby is resting in an awkward position before the mother gives birth. When a baby lies in an uncomfortable position in its mother’s womb, it can require medical professionals to engage in alternative maneuvers to try and deliver the baby. Sadly, this can result in nerve damage to the baby. One of the most common issues that can lead to Erb’s palsy is shoulder dystocia. That’s when a baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone. It can happen when doctors move the baby’s head when trying to get their shoulders out of the womb. Factors contributing to this can include:

  • Prolonged labor
  • Larger birth weight
  • Breech position

We understand that dealing with injuries to your newborn can be sad and scary. That’s why we’re here to help you pursue justice. Call us today at 313-524-8570 to learn more about your situation.

How Is Erb’s Palsy Treated?

Treatment for Erb’s palsy can involve several things, like physical therapy to enhance the range of motion and strengthen the affected arm. In some instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or graft nerves. Depending on the circumstances, proper care and treatment can resolve Erb’s palsy and reduce its impact on the baby’s life.

Erb’s Palsy Can Still Have Long-Term Effects

Many children with Erb’s palsy show significant improvement. However, others can face long-term challenges, such as limited motion or muscle weakness. Understanding these potential effects can help you prepare and seek necessary interventions.

When To Call An Attorney

If you suspect medical negligence contributed to your child’s Erb’s palsy, it’s vital to seek legal advice. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. We’re committed to helping you and your family seek justice on behalf of your newborn’s injury.

We’ve been handling medical malpractice and birth injury cases since 1983 and have built a strong reputation and a track record of success for our clients over the last 40 years.

Michigan Brachial Plexus Lawyer

In almost every case, Erb’s palsy can be avoided. With proper fetal monitoring, regulation of blood sugars during pregnancy and a timely cesarean delivery if necessary, there should be minimal risk of dystocia and Erb’s palsy. Contact us. We can help you obtain maximum compensation if your doctor’s negligence caused your child’s Erb’s palsy.

Erb’s palsy is closely related to shoulder dystocia. Direct injuries to the shoulder during delivery lead to nerve damage in the shoulder area, causing Erb’s palsy. A common scenario occurs when the child gets caught in the birth canal and the doctor needs to use extra force to deliver the child. A doctor will often use vacuum extraction or forceps, which increases the likelihood of damage to the child’s shoulder.

Free Consultations | No Fee Unless We Win

Email us or call us at 313-524-8570 for a free consultation with one of our Detroit Erb’s palsy attorneys. Our team also serves clients in Illinois and other states.