BIRTH PALSY Meaning and
Definition
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Birth palsy, also known as brachial plexus birth palsy or Erb's palsy, is a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the arm resulting from damage to the brachial plexus nerves during childbirth. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originate from the spinal cord in the neck and supply movement and sensation to the shoulder, arm, and hand.
Birth palsy typically occurs as a result of excessive traction or stretching of the baby's neck, usually during a difficult or prolonged delivery. This can happen when the baby's shoulder gets caught behind the mother's pubic bone (shoulder dystocia), or when excessive pulling or twisting forces are applied during delivery. The injury can range from mild stretching or tearing of the nerves to more severe cases involving complete avulsion or tearing away of the nerves from the spinal cord.
Common symptoms of birth palsy include weakness or paralysis of the affected arm, lack of movement or sensation in the arm, and abnormal muscle tone or reflexes. Treatment for birth palsy may include physical therapy or occupational therapy to improve muscle strength and range of motion, as well as support devices such as splints or braces to help with movement and prevent joint contractures.
In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or graft damaged nerves. The prognosis for birth palsy varies depending on the extent of the nerve damage, but with early intervention and appropriate treatment, many children are able to regain function and have a good long-term outcome.
Similar spelling words for BIRTH PALSY
