Erb’s Palsy Risk Factors

Erb’s palsy is common condition caused by damage to the brachial plexus, which is a major group of nerves running from the cervical vertebrae to the shoulder and arm. This disability often results from birth injuries that arise due to shoulder dystocia, a problem that occurs during labor and delivery when an infant’s shoulder becomes trapped against the mother’s pelvic bone. It is a physician’s duty to take note of any shoulder dystocia risk factors for a mother and her unborn child and to take action to help prevent shoulder dystocia, and subsequently Erb’s palsy, from occurring.

Physician errors in preparing for delivery may leave your child suffering from disabilities such as Erb’s palsy. Treating Erb’s palsy can prove costly, but your family may be entitled to compensation if this disability was caused by a doctor’s negligence. To learn more about your legal options as the parent of an injured child, contact an Erb’s palsy attorney of the Driscoll Firm today at (800) 900-7704.

Indicators of Shoulder Dystocia Risk

Doctors must properly identify and take into account any risk factors that could contribute to a child’s injury during birth, including those increasing an infant’s chances of suffering shoulder dystocia. The following may indicate a higher probability of shoulder dystoica, which could lead to Erb’s palsy:

  • Large babies, or macrosomia
  • Narrow maternal pelvic opening
  • Multiple-birth pregnancy
  • Maternal obesity
  • Gestational diabetes or other forms of maternal diabetes
  • Pregnancies beyond their due dates
  • History of shoulder dystocia

If these risk factors are present, a delivery room doctor should may necessary changes in care to help prevent this situation and Erb’s palsy.

Contact Us

If a doctor’s mistakes have left your child with Erb’s palsy, you may be eligible to seek financial compensation for the treatment and recovery costs your household may face. For a free consultation regarding your birth injury case, contact an Erb’s palsy lawyer of the Driscoll Firm today by calling (800) 900-7704.

 

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