What Is Brachial Plexus Palsy?

Brachial plexus palsy describes a condition that arises from damage to the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves that conduct signals between the spinal cord and the shoulder, arm, and hand. It can result in weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the affected arm, as well as sensory disturbances.

Brachial plexus palsy can occur due to a variety of factors, including:

1. Birth Injuries: During childbirth, the brachial plexus can be stretched or compressed, leading to damage. This can occur due to difficult deliveries, such as shoulder dystocia.

2. Trauma: Severe trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, sports injury, or a fall, can also cause brachial plexus palsy.

3. Medical Procedures: Certain medical procedures, like inserting a catheter into the subclavian vein for central venous access, may rarely lead to brachial plexus injury.

4. Tumors: Growing tumors in the chest or neck can put pressure on the brachial plexus, causing symptoms of palsy.

5. Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation used for cancer treatment might affect the brachial plexus and lead to palsy in rare cases.

Brachial plexus palsy can cause weakness or paralysis of muscles that control the shoulder, arm, wrist, and hand. This can manifest as difficulty raising the arm, bending the elbow, or rotating the wrist. Patients might also experience diminished or absent reflexes, tingling and numbness, or pain.

Diagnosis is typically made based on the patient's symptoms, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. These tests assess muscle and nerve function.

Depending on the cause and severity, treatment options may include conservative measures like splinting, physical therapy, and pain management, or more extensive interventions like surgical repair of damaged nerves or nerve grafts.

Brachial plexus palsy outcomes vary depending on the extent and site of nerve damage. Some people recover fully, while others might have persistent symptoms or require ongoing treatment and rehabilitation. Prompt medical attention and appropriate management are important for improving outcomes and minimizing long-term complications.