Obstetric Brachial Plexus Injuries

Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy (OBPP) is an injury to all or a portion of a child’s brachial plexus Which affects the movement and feeling in a child’s arm.

• Often caused by birth trauma
• May spontaneously recover
• May require specialist intervention
• Ranges from bruising to tearing of the nerves
• Erb’s palsy is often used to describe injury to the upper brachial plexus
• Klumpke’s palsy is used to describe injury to the lower brachial plexus

The Erb’s Palsy Group has a useful website with more information, is can be accessed by using the following link: http://www.erbspalsygroup.co.uk

How can physiotherapy help?

Our specialist physiotherapist will undertake a thorough examination and an in depth history and provide:

• Advice regarding positioning; carrying; and handling the baby
• Exercises and activities that will help encourage the baby to move their arm
• Exercises that prevent the baby’s arm from becoming stiff