Treatment for Brachial Plexus Injury in Monroe, West Monroe, & Ruston, LA
A brachial plexus injury affects the nerves that control movement and feeling in a baby’s arm and hand, often happening during a difficult delivery. Building Futures Pediatric Therapy offers occupational and physical therapy at clinics in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston, LA, to help babies build strength, flexibility, and movement in the affected arm through gentle, play-based sessions.
If your child has a brachial plexus injury, it can be difficult to understand how it happened and what you can do to help them. Thankfully, our caring pediatric occupational therapists know the ins and outs of this condition and how best to help your baby heal from this injury so they can move and play more easily. Keep reading to learn what a brachial plexus injury is, how it happens, and how occupational therapy can treat this condition no matter how young your baby is.
What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that comes from the spinal cord and extends through the neck down into the armpit. These nerves are vital for sensory function and movement in the arms, hands, and fingers. An injury to the brachial plexus typically means that these nerves have been pulled or stretched enough to damage them. This condition can affect anyone, but it’s often seen in newborns and impacts their ability to use the affected arm.
What Causes a Brachial Plexus Injury?
A brachial plexus injury can happen during childbirth if the baby’s shoulder gets stuck in the birth canal during delivery. The brachial plexus can be injured as the baby maneuvers through the birth canal, especially if the medical team has to intervene to assist the baby’s safe delivery. Pulling the baby’s head or neck to one side or stretching their shoulder to help them get free of the birth canal can inadvertently stretch the brachial plexus nerves and lead to injury.
Signs and Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injury
The most common signs of a brachial plexus injury in newborns include:
- Limited or no movement in the affected arm
- Weakness or lack of muscle control
- Impaired reflexes
- Poor grip on the affected side
- Pain in the arm, wrist, or hand
- Arm held against the body with the elbow extended
- A lack of feeling or sensations in the affected arm
- A lack of startle reflex on the affected side of the body
How Occupational Therapy Treats Brachial Plexus Injuries
Our pediatric occupational therapists use proven, play-based therapy techniques to help children with brachial plexus injuries reduce pain or discomfort and build their movement skills. Through simple stretches and exercises, we empower your child to regain their motor control, flexibility, and strength so they can heal from a brachial plexus injury. In cases of severe injury, our team can help your child learn to manage their condition more comfortably so they can reach their fullest potential.
Free Developmental Screening
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, you can take advantage of our free online developmental screening. This tool is a convenient way for parents to know with certainty if your child is achieving their developmental milestones or if they need extra support to achieve their brightest future.
FreQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What signs might point to a brachial plexus injury?
Parents may notice that one of their child’s arms seems weaker, moves less than the other, or stays turned in an unusual position. Some babies may not lift the arm well, have a weaker grasp, or seem uncomfortable with certain movements.
Can therapy help my baby use the affected arm?
Yes. Therapy can help protect range of motion, build strength, and encourage your baby to use the affected arm during everyday play and routines. Early support can make a big difference in helping your child learn balanced movement.
What happens during therapy for a brachial plexus injury?
Therapy may include gentle stretching, positioning, strengthening, and play activities that encourage arm and hand use. Your therapist can also teach you safe ways to hold, dress and play with your baby at home.
Will my child always need support with that arm?
Every child is different. Some children recover very well, while others need longer-term support. Therapy helps track progress, prevent stiffness, and support the best movement possible as your child grows.
What can I do at home between visits?
Your therapist may give you simple positioning tips and gentle activities to do during diaper changes, tummy time, dressing or play. Home practice should be calm and comfortable, never forced.