BRACHICAL PLEXUS
Home > Brachical Plexus
Florida Helping Families After Preventable Childbirth Nerve Injuries
Few things are more alarming for new parents than noticing their newborn cannot move an arm or has a limp, weak shoulder. In many cases, this is the result of a brachial plexus injury - nerve damage caused during a difficult or mishandled delivery.
These injuries can lead to lifelong weakness, paralysis, or limited mobility. While not every case of brachial plexus damage is malpractice, many result from medical errors such as excessive pulling, delayed C-section, or misuse of delivery tools.
At Loutos Law in Stuart, Florida, we help families across Martin County and the Treasure Coast hold negligent doctors and hospitals accountable for preventable brachial plexus injuries.
What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves located between the neck and shoulder. These nerves control movement and sensation in the arms and hands. When excessive force is applied during childbirth - or when shoulder dystocia (a baby’s shoulder becoming stuck behind the mother’s pelvis) is mismanaged - the brachial plexus nerves can be stretched, torn, or completely severed.
Types of Brachial Plexus Injuries
-
Erb’s Palsy – Damage to the upper nerves; affects the shoulder and upper arm, causing weakness or paralysis.
-
Klumpke’s Palsy – Damage to the lower nerves; affects the forearm, hand, and fingers.
-
Neuropraxia – The most common type; nerves are stretched but not torn. Often heals within months.
-
Neuroma – Scar tissue forms after nerve damage, limiting recovery.
-
Rupture or Avulsion – Nerves are torn or pulled away from the spinal cord; often causes permanent disability.
How Medical Negligence Causes Brachial Plexus Injuries
While some risk factors for shoulder dystocia are unavoidable, many brachial plexus injuries result from avoidable medical mistakes, such as:
Excessive Force During Delivery
Pulling too hard on the baby’s head, neck, or shoulders can overstretch or tear the brachial plexus nerves.
Delayed or Improper C-Section
If a baby is too large or labor is not progressing, doctors must recognize the risk of shoulder dystocia. Delaying a necessary C-section can lead to preventable nerve damage.
Improper Use of Delivery Tools
Failure to Anticipate Shoulder Dystocia
Risk factors include:
-
Maternal diabetes
-
Large baby (macrosomia)
-
Prolonged or difficult labor
-
Maternal obesity
​
If these risks are present, doctors must prepare and act appropriately
Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injuries
Parents may notice:
-
Weakness in one arm
-
Inability to move the arm or hand
-
Abnormal arm position (arm hangs limp, turned inward)
-
Lack of grip strength on the affected side
-
Shrinking of the arm muscles over time
​Prompt medical evaluation is critical. Some injuries heal with therapy, but others require surgery or result in permanent impairment.
Long-Term Consequences for Children and Families
The impact of a brachial plexus injury can last a lifetime:
-
Limited Mobility – Some children never regain full use of their arm.
-
Chronic Pain – Nerve damage can lead to lasting pain and weakness.
-
Multiple Surgeries – Nerve grafts, tendon transfers, and other procedures may be needed.
-
Developmental Challenges – HLimited arm function can make everyday tasks harder.
-
Emotional and Financial Strain – Parents often feel guilt, while medical bills pile up.
Florida Law and Brachial Plexus Malpractice
Florida Statute §766 – Medical Malpractice
Parents must show that healthcare providers failed to follow the accepted standard of care during labor and delivery.
Statute of Limitations
Generally, parents have two years from when malpractice was discovered to file a claim. However, because these cases involve children, exceptions may extend the deadline.
Compensation Available
Families may recover damages for:
-
Past and future medical expenses
-
Rehabilitation and therapy
-
Surgery costs
-
Pain and suffering
-
Loss of quality of life
-
In severe cases, wrongful death damages
Why Families Choose Loutos Law
At Loutos Law, we know how overwhelming it feels when a newborn is injured. Families turn to us because:
-
Local Commitment — We are based in Stuart and serve Martin County and the Treasure Coast.
-
Medical Malpractice Focus — We have experience with birth-related malpractice cases.
-
Compassionate Support — We walk families through the process with care.
-
Aggressive Advocacy — Hospitals and insurers fight hard to deny liability-we fight harder.
What to Do If You Suspect a Brachial Plexus Injury
-
Request Medical Records – Document details of the delivery.
-
Seek Specialist Care – Early intervention may improve outcomes.
-
Track Your Baby’s Symptoms – Note weakness, limited motion, or asymmetry.
-
Contact a Birth Injury Lawyer – Call 772-617-0811 to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Brachial Plexus Injuries in Florida
