Early Childhood Intervention
This website is a place for families who are facing
challenges pertaining to their child's development and
growth.
It is a place to find answers and practical
suggestions. That's what Early Intervention Support is all
about.
Whether a family has a child with a challenging behavior,
a disability or developmental issue, childhood is short - it
should be savored and enjoyed.
Learn More:
Ask a Therapist
We understand developmental milestones and the challenges
of Special Needs children. We spend a great deal of time
with families understanding the inner workings of childhood
routines and interactions. Ask us about your child today!
Ask a Therapist
Brachial Plexus Injuries
Back to Full
List of Diagnosis
The Brachial Plexus is a network of nerves that conducts signals
from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand.
A brachial plexus injury is caused by damage to those nerves. The
severity of the injury is determined by the type of damage.
Symptoms of a Brachial Plexus Injury
- A limp or paralyzed arm
- Lack of muscle control in the arm, hand, or wrist
- Lack of feeling or sensation in the arm or hand
Cause of Brachial Plexus Injury in Children
These injuries occur as a result of shoulder trauma, tumors, or
inflammation. There is a rare syndrome called Parsonage-Turner Syndrome, or
brachial plexitis, which causes inflammation of the brachial plexus without
any obvious shoulder injury.
This syndrome can begin with severe shoulder or arm pain followed by
weakness and numbness. In infants, brachial plexus injuries may happen
during birth if the baby's shoulder is stretched during passage in the birth
canal.
Treatment for Brachial Plexus Injuries
Many brachial plexus injuries heal without specific treatment. Physical
and occupational therapy may be useful to help regain strength and use of
the arm and hand. Medication may be needed to reduce pain and allow more use
of the arm.
With severe traumatic injuries, surgery is sometimes necessary.
Prognosis for Brachial Plexus Injuries
The prognosis depends upon the severity of the injury. Those with stretch
injuries have the best chance to regain normal usage of the arm and hand.
Where can I get more information?
Brachial Plexus Palsy Foundation
210 Springhaven Circle
Royersford, PA 19468
610-792-4234
E-mail
info@brachialplexuspalsyfoundation.org
Website
www.brachialplexuspalsyfoundation.org
National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC)
4200 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 202
Lanham, MD 20706-4829
800-346-2742
301-459-5900/301-459-5984 (TTY)
E-mail
naricinfo@heitechservices.com
Back to Full
List of Diagnosis
Learn More About Early Intervention
Therapy Options
Thankfully, there are many ways to deal with childhood developmental
delays and behaviors. These include in-home services, outpatient (you take
your child to a clinic), inpatient (following injury or surgery) and school
based services. Which type of therapy should you choose?
Visit our Therapy Options
area to learn more.
Return to Top
|