What is Brachial plexus injury

The brachial plexus can be defined as a network of nerves. It conducts signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm and hand. Damage of these nerves causes this disease.

Causes of Brachial Plexus Injury

A brachial plexus injury mostly occurs (during a contact sport) when the head and neck are hit to one side and stretching the brachial plexus on the opposite side. Shoulder dystocia, breech delivery and large birth weight are some causes of Brachial plexus injuries. Maternal diabetes is a common risk factor of this disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injury

Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injury are given below -

1) burning sensation in the neck
2) a feeling of weakness
3) pain in the neck
4) Lost muscle control in wrist
5) Numbness in arm
6) Numbness in hand

Treatment of Brachial Plexus Injury

Prompt treatment is necessary in Brachial Plexus Injury. Proper advice and suggestion of neurologist, physical therapist, medical pain specialist and primary care practitioner is helpful in treatment of Brachial Plexus Injury. Treatment of Brachial Plexus Injury includes the mobilization and icing of the affected region. We can do the treatment of this disease in three phase -

1) Acute phase
2) Recovery phase
3) Maintenance phases

Physical therapy and some medical issues are included in the acute phase treatment; surgery may also be required in this phase.
In Recovery phase physical therapy is contineous and proper care is required. During the maintenance phase of treatment physical therapy continues. The main goal of the treatment is to reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Medication such as anti-inflammatory type or an opiate narcotic is also helpful to alleviate pain. For better results of treatment, protection of ligaments, joints, and tendons from stress is necessary. Physical therapy may be indicated for movement exercises. If patients do not show recovery of neurological function months of age then surgical intervention may be needed.
 

Prevention of Brachial Plexus Injury

For prevention, keeping the muscles in the neck strong can prevent a brachial plexus injury. It is required to use good technique in contact spots such as football and not to strike with the head blocking or tackling.