Brachial Plexus Injury

Brachial Plexus Injury

Brachial plexus injury is a neurological condition that occurs when the nerves in the brachial plexus are damaged. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that controls the movement and sensation in the arm, hand, and shoulder.

Causes

• Birth injuries: These are the most common causes of brachial plexus injury in infants, often due to difficult deliveries or excessive traction on the baby’s head and neck.
• Trauma: Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause damage to the brachial plexus.
• Surgery: Some surgeries, particularly those involving the neck or shoulder, can inadvertently damage the brachial plexus.
• Tumors: Tumors in the area of the brachial plexus can compress or damage the nerves.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation treatment to the neck or shoulder can also damage the brachial plexus.

Symptoms

• Weakness or paralysis in the arm, hand, or shoulder
• Numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or shoulder
• Pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm
• Difficulty with fine motor skills (e.g., buttoning clothes, writing)
• Loss of reflexes in the arm