Learn about Erb's Palsy.

Erb's Palsy or Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy is a form of obstetric brachial plexus injury, which is a complication of pregnancy and delivery.  A network of spinal nerves that transmit signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand is called the brachial plexus.  Brachial refers to the arm, and plexus refers to a network of nerves.  Paralysis or weakness of the muscles of the arm that is caused by damage to the brachial plexus is called Erb’s palsy.  The paralysis can affect any or all of the muscles that control the shoulders, hands, or the arms.  Erb-Duchenne palsy affects muscles around the shoulder and elbow and causes paralysis of the upper brachial plexus. Klumpke’s palsy affects muscles of the forearm and hand and causes paralysis of the lower brachial plexus.  The severity and ultimate diagnosis of Erb’s palsy is dependent on the location and severity of the injury.

Source: www.erb'spalsy.org