Best Doctor List Near You for Obstetrical Brachial Plexus Palsy in Healesville

Obstetrical Brachial Plexus Palsy (OBPP) is a condition resulting from an injury to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that originates from the spinal cord in the neck and extends into the arm, controlling movement and sensation. This condition typically occurs during childbirth when excessive lateral traction is applied to the head or neck during delivery, particularly in cases involving macrosomic infants, shoulder dystocia, or prolonged labor. The injury may vary in severity, ranging from a stretch or neuropraxia, where the nerve function is temporarily disrupted, to complete avulsion, where the nerve is torn from the spinal cord. Symptoms of OBPP may include weakness or paralysis of the affected arm, loss of reflexes, and in severe cases, a complete inability to move the arm, leading to significant challenges in daily activities for the infant. Newborns with OBPP often exhibit a characteristic position of the affected arm, which may be adducted and internally rotated, and there can be associated muscle atrophy as the condition progresses. Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination and imaging studies, which help to determine the extent of nerve injury. Treatment of OBPP may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion, occupational therapy to facilitate daily activities, and in some cases, surgical intervention to repair damaged nerves or restore function, generally within the first year of life for optimal outcomes. Early recognition of the condition is crucial, as timely intervention can significantly affect the child's recovery and overall functional outcomes. Long-term follow-up is often required to monitor development, as children with OBPP can face ongoing challenges, including potential deformities of the shoulder, elbow, or hand, leading to lifelong implications for motor skills and coordination. In summary, Obstetrical Brachial Plexus Palsy is a complex condition arising from perinatal nerve injury that necessitates early diagnosis and a tailored treatment strategy to ensure the best possible prognosis for affected infants.