Erb's Palsy Law Firm

A child diagnosed with Erb's 'Palsy' can have devastating consequences for families. If you believe that your child's brachial plexus injury was caused by negligence by a medical professional during the birth process, get in touch with an experienced erb's-palsy law firm to schedule a free consultation.

An attorney will evaluate the case and estimate the case value by determining future medical costs. This will allow you to determine the value of your claim to potential settlement.

Causes

Erb's Palsy is caused when a bundle (the brachialplexus) of nerves in the neck is damaged. These nerves regulate shoulder, arm and hand movements and sensation. Patients with Erb's Palsy suffer from weakness, numbness, or paralysis in one arm or shoulder.

This condition may result from various medical mistakes during labor and delivery for example, forceps usage or a C-section that was performed too quickly, or a doctor misusing a vacuum extractor during a vaginal birth. The majority of cases of erb's palsy can be prevented. Midwives, Erb's palsy lawyer doctors, nurses and other medical professionals have the obligation to maintain the highest standards of medical care in the birth room. They must ensure the baby's shoulders are delivered through the vaginal canal and they don't become stuck or entangled in the pelvic bone of a mother's.

Some researchers suggest that Erb's palsy could be a result of contractions of the mother or the positioning of a pregnant woman. These theories haven't been confirmed. To be successful in a claim of medical malpractice, plaintiffs need to prove that the doctor's deviation from the accepted standard of care caused their injury.

If you suspect your child suffered from an preventable Erb's palsy-related injury, a birth trauma lawyer can assist you in pursuing justice. A successful lawsuit could award your family financial compensation for your child's medical expenses and give you closure.

Diagnosis

Erb's Palsy can be caused by injury to the brachialplexus which is a network or nerves that run through the shoulder and arm. These nerves can become stretched or torn in the course of a difficult delivery. This can lead to weakness or paralysis of the affected arm. Doctors are responsible for diagnosing the condition as fast as they can.

The most common reason is that there are difficulties during childbirth. This is typically the case when the size of a fetus is greater than what is expected for vaginal birth or when the baby's shoulders become stuck during birth. This is called shoulder dystocia and is one of the major risks for developing Erb's - Palsy.

If a doctor applies excessive pressure or fails to detect shoulder dystocia, it can cause damage to the upper nerves of the brachialplexus. Erb's spalsy is the result. The doctor is liable for any damage that is caused by negligence.

To successfully file a medical malpractice claim you must show that the doctor's deviation from accepted practice caused your injuries. In the case of Erb's paralysis, you have to show that the doctor's actions or inactions caused your child to suffer an injury to the upper brachial nerves. This is a frequent claim that can result in a large settlement and lifetime care for your child.

Treatment

In the majority of instances, it is better to diagnose and treat the problem as soon as you can. If the condition is not treated, it can develop into permanent muscle tightening (contractures) and may lead to partial or complete paralysis. Physical therapy and, sometimes, surgery are the most frequently used treatments.

The seasoned Erb's Palsy lawyers at Marc J. Bern & Partners explore possible claims and lawsuits for children who suffer from brachial plexus injuries caused by medical malpractice during birth across the United States. We encourage families to seek an initial consultation and assessment of their claim.

While doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals are trained to deliver babies safely there are a variety of complications that could arise. When these complications occur, a physician must act quickly to ensure the safety of the mother and child. Unfortunately certain health professionals do not do so.

A doctor might have to apply a certain amount force during a difficult birth to assist the baby through the birth canal. While doing this it is possible that he or she will accidentally stretch the baby's neck and damage the nerves.

Doctors may use a variety tests, including X-rays and ultrasounds, as well as physical examination to determine the severity of the injury as well as the extent of nerve damage. A doctor may prescribe medications to ease pain and discomfort as well as occupational therapy or physical therapy to restore motion.

Compensation

The cost of treatment for a child suffering from the condition Erb's palsy can be extremely expensive. A successful lawsuit may help families to afford the treatment they need. An experienced Erb's palsy lawyer will work to maximize the amount of compensation a family may receive.

When a baby has Erb's Palsy, it can affect every aspect of their lives. It can stop the ability to work and cut down on the time they spend with their parents. It can also cause emotional distress.

erb's palsy lawyer palsy law claims may be claimed for the expense of treatment, the loss of earnings and the impact that the injury could have on a child's ability to enjoy everyday activities. Also, claims can be made for pain and suffering caused by the injury and the compensation paid will reflect this.

A successful case will show that the obstetrician was negligent. This will be proven by proving a deviation from the standard practice and how this resulted in your child's injury. Every case is unique and it could take a long time to settle an Erb's palsy lawsuit. It is crucial that families consult an attorney sooner rather than later to ensure they do not miss the deadline to file the lawsuit. A lawsuit that is filed late may be barred by the Statute of Limitations.