Brachial plexus injuries are a serious medical condition that can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mobility and quality of life. These injuries involve damage to the network of nerves in the neck and shoulder that control movement and sensation in the arm, hand, and fingers. While brachial plexus injuries can occur in various circumstances, they are often the result of trauma, accidents, or complications during childbirth. In this blog, Simeone & Miller will explore brachial plexus injuries, how they happen, and what you can do if you or a loved one has been affected.
Understanding the Brachial Plexus
The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that originates in the spinal cord and extends through the neck, shoulder, and arm. These nerves are responsible for sending signals that allow for movement and sensation in the upper extremities. When the brachial plexus is damaged, it can disrupt this communication, leading to partial or complete loss of function in the affected area.
Brachial plexus injuries can vary in severity, ranging from mild stretching of the nerves to complete nerve tears. The four primary types of brachial plexus injuries are:
- Neurapraxia: The least severe type, involving temporary nerve stretching without permanent damage.
- Axonotmesis: A more serious injury where the nerve fibers are damaged, but the surrounding structures remain intact.
- Neurotmesis: The most severe type, where the nerve is completely torn and may require surgical intervention.
- Avulsion: Occurs when the nerve root is torn away from the spinal cord, often resulting in permanent disability.
Common Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries
Brachial plexus injuries can occur in various ways, but the most common causes include:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
High-impact collisions are a leading cause of brachial plexus injuries. When the shoulder is violently pulled or compressed during a crash, it can stretch or tear the nerves. Motorcyclists and bicyclists are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of protection from external forces.
Sports Injuries
Contact sports like football, wrestling, and rugby can lead to brachial plexus injuries, often referred to as “stingers” or “burners.” These occur when the head is forcefully pushed to one side while the shoulder is pressed downward, stretching the nerves.
Birth Injuries
Brachial plexus injuries are a common complication during childbirth, particularly in cases of difficult labor or shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone. Improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors can also contribute to these injuries.
Workplace Accidents
Jobs that require heavy lifting or repetitive overhead motions can increase the risk of brachial plexus injuries. Additionally, falls or machinery-related incidents can lead to nerve damage.
Trauma
Blunt force trauma, such as from a fall or a physical altercation, can cause damage to the brachial plexus. Gunshot or stab wounds in the neck or shoulder area can also result in severe nerve damage.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of a brachial plexus injury depend on the severity and location of the damage. Common symptoms include:
- Weakness or paralysis in the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Loss of sensation or numbness
- Burning or shooting pain in the affected area
- Muscle atrophy over time
Diagnosing a brachial plexus injury often involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests (such as MRI or CT scans), and nerve studies to determine the extent of the damage.
Treatment Options
Treatment for brachial plexus injuries varies based on the severity of the condition:
- Mild Injuries: Rest, physical therapy, and pain management are often sufficient for less severe cases.
- Moderate Injuries: Nerve grafts or transfers may be necessary if the nerve is partially torn.
- Severe Injuries: Surgical intervention, such as nerve reconstruction or muscle transfers, may be required. In some cases, rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength and mobility.
Legal Options for Brachial Plexus Injuries
If your brachial plexus injury was caused by someone else’s negligence—such as a car accident, medical malpractice during childbirth, or unsafe working conditions—you may be entitled to compensation. This can include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we have extensive experience helping clients recover damages for injuries caused by negligence. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take, and we are dedicated to fighting for the justice you deserve.
How We Can Help
When you work with Simeone & Miller, LLP, you can trust that your case will be handled with compassion. Our team will investigate the circumstances of your injury, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. We are committed to securing the maximum compensation possible to help you on your road to recovery.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a brachial plexus injury, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact Simeone & Miller, LLP today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you every step of the way.
