The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates from the spinal cord in the neck and travels through the neck, the axilla (armpit region), and into the arm. These nerves convey signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand, enabling movements and sensation.
This network includes roots, trunks, divisions, cords, and branches that collectively control the chest, shoulder, arm, and hand muscles and convey sensory information from these areas back to the brain. Injuries to the brachial plexus can result from trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries, or from complications during birth. The severity of a brachial plexus injury can vary from temporary weakness to permanent nerve damage, impacting the functionality and sensation in the affected areas. Treatment options range from physical therapy and medication to surgical interventions, depending on the severity of the injury.
How Can Brachial Plexus Injuries Occur?
During childbirth, the brachial plexus can become injured due to stretching, compression, or tearing of the nerves. This type of injury is often called a birth-related brachial plexus injury. The most common form is Erb's Palsy, which affects the upper nerves of the brachial plexus, leading to weakness or paralysis in the arm. Another form, Klumpke's Palsy, affects the lower nerves and can cause similar symptoms.
The impact of these injuries can vary from mild, where the baby may have only temporary weakness or loss of motion, to more severe cases involving permanent nerve damage and disability. Treatment might include physical therapy to restore function, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged nerves.
How Gray and White Can Help?
We can provide several critical services to help people affected by these injuries, especially when they occur during childbirth and may be due to medical negligence.
- Case Evaluation: We can evaluate the specifics of the injury to determine if you have a viable claim for medical malpractice. This involves reviewing medical records, the circumstances of the birth, and the actions of healthcare providers.
- Expert Consultation: We also work with medical experts who can provide testimony or insights into how the injury occurred, whether it was preventable, and the standard of care expected in similar circumstances. These experts can help establish whether there was a deviation from standard medical practices.
- Legal Guidance: We guide you through the legal process, explaining your rights and the steps involved in pursuing a claim.
- Damage Recovery: We can help recover damages for medical expenses, future medical and therapy costs, pain and suffering, and in some cases, future lost earnings if the injury results in long-term disability. We always aim to secure compensation that reflects the impact of the injury on your life.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, we can file a lawsuit on your behalf, managing all aspects of the litigation, from filing the case to presenting arguments and evidence in court.
For families dealing with the aftermath of a brachial plexus injury, particularly those resulting from potentially negligent circumstances, an attorney with specialized knowledge in this area can be invaluable. They not only offer a pathway to financial compensation but also help in managing the complex, often emotional aspects of dealing with a serious medical injury.
Contact Us Today
If your baby has been impacted by brachial plexus injuries, get in touch with Gray and White today. We can discuss your case and help you determine options going forward. Call (502) 210-8942 or fill out our online form to request a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.