A 37-year-old member asked:
What is erbs palsy?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Mazen Ghanianswered
Radiology 25 years experience
Erb's palsy: Is a paralysis of the arm caused by injury to the upper group of the arm's main nerves, specifically the upper trunk c5-c6 is severed. These injuries arise most commonly, but not exclusively, during a difficult birth. Depending on the nature of the damage, the paralysis can either resolve on its own over a period of months, necessitate rehabilitative therapy, or require surgery.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. James Ferguson commented
Pediatrics 47 years experience
The palsy does not require severing of these nerves. The most common presentation is after a difficult birth when traction on the shoulder strains the nerve group produces loss of function. It is only in the weeks to come when the associated swelling subsides that you can determine if the problem is from the swelling or an actual tearing/severing of the nerve.
Dec 11, 2017
Last updated Dec 11, 2017
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.