• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Cerebral Palsy Guidance

Answers and Assistance

877-862-8594phone iconCall
  • Cerebral Palsy
    • Types
    • Symptoms
    • Diagnosis
    • Treatment
    • Prognosis
    • Causes
    • Associated Disorders
    • Gross Motor Classification System
    • Life Expectancy
    • Myths
    • Risk Factors
    • Support Groups
    • Research
    • United Cerebral Palsy Association
    • Birth Injury Overview
  • Living With Cerebral Palsy
    • Support Groups
    • Daily Communication
    • Physical Fitness
    • Toilet Training Tips
    • Eating and Feeding Tips
    • Wheelchairs and Scooters
    • Walkers, Canes, and Standers
    • Falling Issues
    • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
    • Conductive Education
    • Tips For Better Sleeping
    • Traveling Tips
    • Sports
    • Bullying
    • Inclusive Playgrounds
    • Respite Care
    • Transitioning to Adulthood
    • Vocational Counseling
    • College Guide
    • Finding a Job
    • Having Children
    • Costs
  • Financial Assistance
    • Government Assistance
    • Special Education Assistance
    • Cerebral Palsy Lawyer
    • Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit
  • Our Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
Baby arms brachial plexus
Home > Birth Injury Overview > Brachial Plexus Birth Injury > Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Treatment
Last Updated: April 08, 2025

Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Treatment

Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Gina Jansheski, M.D.
Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Gina Jansheski, M.D.

This article has been fact checked by a Board Certified Pediatrician. Sources of information for the article are listed at the bottom.

For any content issues please Contact Us.

Infants born with brachial plexus damage have varying degrees of symptoms and disability. Brachial plexus birth injury treatment for mild cases is gentle physical therapy and time to heal. For those with more severe damage, surgery can help repair damaged nerves and restore some function to the arm.[1]

What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?

The brachial plexus is a bundle of five nerves that attach to the spinal cord and spread out to smaller nerves that control various parts of the arm (from the shoulder down to the fingers). During childbirth, overstretching may damage these nerves.

Pulling on the infant’s head as it comes through the birth canal, twisting the head and neck with respect to the shoulder, and even pressure in the birth canal can stretch the nerves of the brachial plexus.

Get Matched with a Leading Birth InjuryCerebral Palsy Attorney in Your Area

Get Help Now

Another possible cause of stretching is when a child is born breech, and their upraised arms stretch the nerves as they emerge from the birth canal. Risk factors for this damage include a large baby, breech birth, shoulder dystocia, and prolonged, difficult labor.

The injury to the nerves may be mild and cause damage simply by stretching them, or could be more severe, including rips or complete tears away from the spinal cord. The symptoms of this kind of damage include paralysis, weakness, and loss of sensation in the arm.

The collection of symptoms caused by brachial plexus injury is called brachial plexus palsy. The specific nerves involved will lead to dysfunction in certain areas. Erb’s palsy refers to damage that causes symptoms in the upper part of the arm.

Lower arm symptoms are sometimes called Klumpke’s palsy. Damage caused by injury to all five brachial plexus nerves may be called global palsy, which may affect the function of the entire arm.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries

Some damage to the brachial plexus during childbirth isn’t rare, and in most instances, the injury is mild. A little overstretching, or even a moderate amount, is typically the type of injury that does not require much treatment. Most infants born with this will recover naturally as the nerves heal over three to four months.[2]

Infants with noticeable palsy caused by mild-to-moderate nerve damage benefit from physical therapy as the nerves heal.

Physical therapy can include a range of motion movements, strength and muscle-building exercises, gentle massage, and mobilization of joints.

Aquatic therapy can also be helpful for some children, as can neuromuscular electrical stimulation, which entails using a mild electrical current to stimulate muscle movement.

Nerve Graft

If improvements are not seen or are inadequate by six months, surgery to correct nerve damage may be an option. Surgical treatment for these injuries is only necessary when nerves do not heal independently.[3]

If babies don’t improve within about six months, this could mean the damage was more severe and likely included tearing or some areas of complete separation from the spinal cord.

In the case of a nerve that is overstretched, not healing, or torn, a surgeon may perform a nerve graft to repair damage and restore sensation and movement.

This involves using a donor’s nerve, typically from another part of the patient’s own body, and grafting it onto the damaged nerve to bypass the tear and promote healing.

Nerve Transfer

In even more severe cases, particularly when the nerve has torn away from the spinal cord, a nerve transfer may be needed. During this procedure, a nearby nerve is redirected to reconnect the damaged brachial plexus nerve.[3]

In some cases, a nerve transfer may be used instead of a nerve graft for a damaged nerve but not separated from the spinal cord. In this case, a transfer can be more targeted than a graft and may restore more sensation and movement to the affected muscle.

Other Surgical Treatments for Brachial Plexus Injuries

Other types of surgeries may help children with brachial plexus injuries recover more movement or sensation. These may include muscle or tendon transfers.

This is most often done when surgery on the nerves is not possible because it has been delayed until the age of 12 months or older.

Severing and reconnecting muscles and tendons can restore some motion to affected arms and joints. Other surgeries that can help a child with brachial plexus injury include removing scar tissue from damaged nerves, shoulder and elbow reconstructions, and arthroscopic surgeries.

Botox Injections

Another treatment option for brachial plexus injuries is an injection of botulinum toxin A, also known as Botox. This toxin comes from a bacterium and causes paralysis.

Injections of Botox can be localized to cause paralysis only where it is needed. There is a low risk that the toxin will spread to other body parts.

Botox is used to help bring balance to the joints for brachial plexus injuries. When the shoulder or elbow is imbalanced, it is usually because one muscle, unaffected by the nerve damage, is stronger than another and is overpowering it.

Botox can temporarily paralyze or weaken that muscle so that the other one can become stronger with more use and will eventually balance out. Physical therapy to strengthen that muscle is typically utilized with Botox injections.

What Is the Latest in Brachial Plexus Birth Injury Treatment?

Brachial plexus birth injuries are common and result in varying degrees of disability. Researchers continue to look for better ways to treat the damage and restore function.

Recent research focused on creating the right conditions for nerve restoration after a brachial plexus injury. The researchers used chemotherapy medications to help the peripheral nerves penetrate the spinal cord.

The ability to get into the spinal cord is vital for regenerating nerve connections, but it isn’t always possible after a brachial plexus injury. Researchers are hopeful that this approach could repair damage and restore function without resorting to surgery.[4] 

Can Brachial Plexus Injuries Be Treated in Adulthood?

Typically, the most important treatments occur at an early age. In some cases, an individual can benefit from ongoing therapy or even a surgical procedure at a later age.

One example comes from a young man in Canada who lived with significant pain from a brachial plexus birth injury into adulthood.[5] He underwent surgeries as a child, but still had a lot of pain and disability.

Finally, in his 20s, he came to the U.S. for specialists who could provide a surgery to improve mobility and reduce pain in his arm.

The specialists removed scar tissue from the damaged nerves, which alleviated a lot of his pain. They also rotated his humerus bone to give his arm more movement. After decades of struggling, he saw major improvements from this surgery, proving it’s never too late to seek specialist treatment.

What Is the Prognosis for a Brachial Plexus Injury?

The outlook for a brachial plexus injury is usually good. Most babies will recover and have no or only mild disabilities. The best way to improve the prognosis for your baby is to get treatment as soon as possible.

Brachial plexus injuries are not always serious, but they can be. If you have a child born with this type of injury, you could be dealing with months of therapy and even surgeries.

Your child could be facing lifelong complications. If you believe someone was at fault during childbirth, you may have a case to make for compensation. Contact an experienced birth injury lawyer to get started.

Get Matched with a Leading Birth InjuryCerebral Palsy Attorney in Your Area

Get Help Now

References

  1. Cincinnati Children's (n.d.). Brachial Plexus. Treatment Options.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/service/b/brachial-plexus/treatment
  2. MedlinePlus. (2021, November 9). Brachial Plexus Injury in Newborns.
    Retrieved from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001395.htm
  3. Boston Children's Hospital. (n.d.). Brachial Plexus Birth Injury.
    Retrieved from: https://www.hss.edu/conditions_brachial-plexus-injuries-treatment-advances.asp
  4. Wampler, B. (2020, January 16). New study Identifies Potential Path Forward for Brachial Plexus Injury Recovery. Notre Dame News.
    Retrieved from: https://news.nd.edu/news/new-study-identifies-potential-path-forward-for-brachial-plexus-injury-recovery/
  5. Breen, K. (2024, September 28). He Was in Agonizing Pain from a Birth Injury - Until a Complex Surgery "Changed Everything." CBS News.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/brachial-plexus-birth-injury-tyler-theroux-nyu-langone/
View All References
Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Gina Jansheski, M.D.

Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Gina Jansheski, M.D.

Gina Jansheski, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has been a practicing pediatrician for over 20 years, working primarily with hospitalized patients and children with special needs.

See Full Bio

Primary Sidebar

Get Matched with a Leading Birth InjuryCerebral Palsy Attorney in Your Area

Get Help Now
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy in Newborns
Cerebral Palsy in Toddlers
Severe Cerebral Palsy
Types of Cerebral Palsy
Ataxic
Atonic (Hypotonic)
Dyskinetic Athetoid
Dystonic
Hypertonic
Mixed
Non-Spastic
Spastic
Spastic Diplegia
Spastic Hemiplegia
Spastic Quadriplegia
Cerebral Palsy Symptoms
How Cerebral Palsy Affects the Brain and Body
Cerebral Palsy Causes
Birth Asphyxia
Prolonged Labor
Delayed C-Section
Forceps Delivery Injuries
Vacuum Extractor Birth Injuries
Nuchal Cord Birth Injuries
Uterine Rupture and Birth Injury
Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)
Failure to Diagnose
Chorioamnionitis
Improper NICU Care
Traumatic Brain Injury
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome
Hydrocephalus
Pitocin Errors
Anesthesia Errors
Infertility Drugs
Cerebral Dysgenesis and Cerebral Palsy
Jaundice
Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL)
Placental Problems
Epidural Hematoma
Perinatal Stroke
Meningitis
Acquired Brain Injuries and Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Associated Disorders
Mobility Issues
Pain
Cognitive Issues
Developmental Delays
Post-Impairment Syndrome
Seizures
Epilepsy
Malnutrition
Respiratory Health
Hearing Problems
Vision Impairment
Arthritis
Depression
Sleep Issues
Dysphagia
Oral Health Issues
Skin Conditions
Digestive Issues and Health
Emotional Issues
Behavioral Disorders
Autism
Down Syndrome
ADHD
Diabetes
Cancer
Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis
Imaging Tests
Cerebral Palsy Prognosis
Cerebral Palsy Gross Motor Classification System
Cerebral Palsy Treatment
Cerebral Palsy Specialists
Nutrition Therapy
Chiropractic Care
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Medications
Seizure Medications
Anticonvulsants
Muscle Relaxants
Stem Cell Therapy
Surgery
Aquatic Therapy
Acupuncture Therapy
Botox Treatment
Hippotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy
Homeopathy
Yoga
Pilates
Intensive Suit Therapy
Medical Marijuana
Functional Electrical Stimulation
Osteopathic Manipulation
Anat Baniel Method and NeuroMovement
Pet Therapy
Cerebral Palsy Cure
Cerebral Palsy Life Expectancy
Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors
High-Risk Pregnancy
Risk Factor Causal Pathways
Premature Birth
Birth Complications
Post-term Pregnancy
Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Cerebral Palsy
Maternal and Fetal Infections and Cerebral Palsy
Blood Type Incompatibility
Multiple Births
Parental Habits and Health
Cerebral Palsy Support Groups and Organizations
Cerebral Palsy Research
Cerebral Palsy History
Facts and Statistics
Prevalence and Incidence
Cerebral Palsy Myths
Cerebral Palsy Prevention
Cerebral Palsy Misdiagnosis
United Cerebral Palsy Association
Caregiver Resources
Living With Cerebral Palsy
Costs
Orthopedic Health
Neurological Health
Daily Communication
Physical Fitness
Abuse
Toilet Training Tips
Eating and Feeding Tips
Wheelchairs and Scooters
Wheelchair-accessible Vans
Walkers, Canes, and Standers
Adaptive Bikes
Affordable Transportation
Assistive Technology
Falling Issues
Home Modifications
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Conductive Education
Tips For Better Sleeping
Traveling Tips
Sports
Bullying
Inclusive Playgrounds
Respite Care
Faith
Engaging in the Arts
Transitioning to Adulthood
LGBT
Vocational Counseling
College Guide
Teacher Tips for Inclusive Classrooms
Finding a Job
Having Children
Veterans
Fostering or Adopting a Child with CP
Enjoying the Great Outdoors
Emergency Preparedness
Financial Assistance
Government Assistance
Title V MCH Benefits
Special Education Assistance
Cerebral Palsy Lawyer
Alabama
Huntsville
Alaska
Anchorage
Arizona
Phoenix
Arkansas
Little Rock
California
Los Angeles
Colorado
Denver
Connecticut
Bridgeport
Delaware
Wilmington
Florida
Jacksonville
Georgia
Atlanta
Hawaii
Honolulu
Idaho
Boise
Illinois
Chicago
Indiana
Indianapolis
Iowa
Des Moines
Kansas
Wichita
Kentucky
Louisville
Louisiana
New Orleans
Maine
Portland, Maine
Maryland
Baltimore
Massachusetts
Boston
Michigan
Detroit
Minnesota
Minneapolis
Mississippi
Jackson
Missouri
Kansas City
Montana
Billings
Nebraska
Omaha
Nevada
Las Vegas
New Hampshire
Manchester
New Jersey
Newark
New Mexico
Albuquerque
New York
New York City
North Carolina
Charlotte
North Dakota
Fargo
Ohio
Columbus
Oklahoma
Oklahoma City
Oregon
Portland
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Rhode Island
Providence
South Carolina
Columbia
South Dakota
Sioux Falls
Tennessee
Nashville
Texas
Houston
Utah
Salt Lake City
Vermont
Burlington
Virginia
Virginia Beach
Washington
Seattle
Washington, D.C.
West Virginia
Charleston
Wisconsin
Milwaukee
Wyoming
Cheyenne
Medical Malpractice
Claim for Compensation
Lawsuit
Settlement
Statute of Limitations
Life Care Plan
Goals
Evaluation
Diagnosis
Care Team
Record Keeping and Documents
Birth Injury
Treatment
Causes
Failure to Monitor
Symptoms
Prognosis
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Infant Skull Fracture
Treatment
Symptoms
Causes
Prognosis
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Infant Brain Damage
Prognosis
Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Lawyer
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Settlement
Infant Wrongful Death
Causes
Intrauterine Fetal Demise (Stillbirth)
Claim for Compensation
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Grieving the Loss of a Baby
Erb’s Palsy
Symptoms
Prognosis
Treatment
Causes
Lawyer
Settlement
Lawsuit
Claim for Compensation
Brachial Plexus Birth Injury
Causes
Prognosis
Symptoms
Treatment
Lawyer
Lawsuit
Settlement
Claim for Compensation
Klumpke’s Palsy
Lawyer
Lawsuit

© 2025 CerebralPalsyGuidance.com · Privacy Policy · Disclaimer

The information provided by CerebralPalsyGuidance.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Living With Cerebral Palsy
  • Financial Assistance
  • Our Blog
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
210 W. Division St. Syracuse, NY 13204

We provide nationwide assistance

Facebook Twitter
Learn About Our Editorial Guidelines