Erb's Palsy is an injury to the nerves at the base of the neck known as the "brachial plexus". This is often caused during labour as attempts at delivery cause pressure on the neck resulting in bruising or stretching. In rare occasions the shoulder is broken.

This pressure on the neck happens when the baby's shoulder becomes stuck on the pubic bone. Attempts to deliver can cause serious damage. This is known as Shoulder Dystocia.

Shoulder Dystocia is an emergency. During compression of the neck the baby cannot breathe. The shoulders should be released within six minutes to avoid any serious brain damage.

All midwives should undergo training to deal with obstetric emergencies and often Erb’s Palsy arises due to panic and a lack of training.

There are protocols in place involving various manoeuvres that should be used to attempt to free the shoulder. Failure to carry out these procedures will usually result in an Erb’s Palsy claim.

These claims involve detailed witness evidence and a careful review of the events surrounding the delivery.

Why is Erb's Palsy caused by negligence?

Erb's Palsy is often caused by excessive force. Many Erb's Palsy claims involve complex issues in relation to the amount of force used. It is often a case of the mother's word against the midwife's. All Erb's Palsy Claims are different and involve different issues.

If you believe that your child has been injured as a result of a negligently handled delivery and would like to discuss a potential Erb's Palsy Claim please contact us today for a free initial assessment by an experienced medical negligence Lawyer.

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