Paralysis Resource Guide - (Page 9) CONDITIONS BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURY Brachial plexus injuries are caused by excessive stretching, tearing, or other trauma to a network of nerves between the spine and the shoulder, arm, and hand. Symptoms may include a limp or paralyzed arm, loss of muscle control or sensation in the arm, hand, or wrist. Chronic pain is often a concern. Injuries often occur due to vehicular accidents, sports mishaps, gunshot wounds, or surgeries; many of these injuries happen during birth if the baby’s shoulders become impacted during the birth process, causing the brachial plexus nerves to stretch or tear. Some brachial plexus injuries may heal without treatment; many children improve or recover by 3 to 4 months of age. Treatment for brachial plexus injuries includes occupational or physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery. For avulsion (tears) and rupture injuries there is no potential for recovery unless surgical reconnection is made in a timely manner. For neuroma (scarring) and neuropraxia (stretching) injuries the potential for recovery is more encouraging. Most people with neuropraxia injuries recover. Sources United Brachial Plexus Network, Brachial Plexus Palsy Foundation, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke BRACHIAL PLEXUS RESOURCES Brachial Plexus Palsy Foundation supports research and education. Contact c/o 210 SpringHaven Circle, Royersford, PA 19468; toll-free 1-800-668-2778; see http://membrane.com/bpp United Brachial Plexus Network provides support related to brachial plexus injuries. Contact c/o 1610 Kent Street, Kent, OH 44240; toll-free 1-866-877-7004; see http://www.ubpn.org SUNY at Syracuse provides a course overview of brachial plexus. Contact c/o State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, 750 Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210; telephone 315464-5540; see http://www.upstate.edu/cdb/grossanat/limbs2.shtml 9 http://membrane.com/bpp http://www.ubpn.org http://www.upstate.edu/cdb/grossanat/limbs2.shtml
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