Erb’s Palsy: Understanding the Condition and the Role of Physiotherapy at Physio360.

PHYSIO 360
Jan 8
3 min read

INTRODUCTION:

Erb’s Palsy, also known as brachial plexus birth palsy, is a condition that primarily affects infants during childbirth. It occurs when the brachial plexus—a network of nerves responsible for movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand—is injured. While this condition can seem daunting, with the right treatment and care, including specialized physiotherapy at Physio360, children can achieve significant recovery and improved function.

What Causes Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s Palsy typically arises due to excessive stretching of the baby’s neck during delivery, which can damage the brachial plexus nerves. Common causes include:

Prolonged Labor: Difficult or extended labour can increase the risk.
Shoulder Dystocia: When the baby’s shoulder gets stuck during delivery.
Assisted Deliveries: Use of forceps or vacuum devices can sometimes lead to nerve injury.
Large Birth Weight: Heavier babies may face more delivery challenges, increasing the risk of injury.

Symptoms of Erb’s Palsy.

The severity of symptoms depends on the extent of nerve damage. Common signs include:

Weakness or paralysis in the affected arm.
Limited range of motion in the shoulder, elbow, or hand.
Lack of sensation or numbness in the affected arm.
The arm appears limp or held close to the body with an internally rotated shoulder.

How Physiotherapy Can Help.

Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the recovery and rehabilitation of children with Erb’s Palsy. At Physio360, our skilled physiotherapists specialize in designing personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each child. Here’s how physiotherapy helps:

1. Improving Range of Motion

Gentle stretching and mobilization exercises are used to maintain or restore movement in the shoulder, elbow, and wrist, preventing stiffness and contractures.

2. Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises focus on rebuilding strength in the affected muscles, aiding in functional recovery and encouraging proper arm movement.

3. Sensory Stimulation

Techniques to enhance sensory awareness in the affected arm help improve nerve function and reduce numbness.

4. Functional Training

Activities designed to mimic everyday tasks help children regain confidence and develop better motor skills.

5. Parent Education

At Physio360, we empower parents by teaching them at-home exercises and stretches to support their child’s recovery journey.

Why Choose Physio360 for Erb’s Palsy Treatment?

At Physio360, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive and compassionate care for children with Erb’s Palsy. Here’s why we are the best choice:

Expert Therapists: Our team includes experienced physiotherapists with expertise in pediatric care.
Personalized Plans: Every child receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and progress.
State-of-the-Art Facility: Our center in Chennai is equipped with advanced tools and a child-friendly environment to ensure effective and enjoyable therapy sessions.
Holistic Approach: We collaborate with parents, paediatricians, and specialists to provide seamless and integrated care.

Prognosis and Recovery.

With early intervention and consistent physiotherapy, most children with Erb’s Palsy show significant improvement. Mild cases may resolve within a few months, while more severe cases may take longer and occasionally require surgical intervention. However, physiotherapy remains a cornerstone of recovery, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Success Stories at Physio360.

Physio360 has helped numerous children overcome the challenges of Erb’s Palsy. From regaining movement to building strength and confidence, our approach ensures a brighter future for every child. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation as the best physiotherapy clinic for pediatric care in Chennai.

Conclusion.

Erb’s Palsy, while challenging, is a condition that can be effectively managed with the right care and intervention. At Physio360, we are dedicated to helping your child achieve their full potential through expert physiotherapy. If you’re looking for compassionate and results-driven care, Physio360 in Chennai is here to support your child’s journey toward recovery. Contact us today to learn more or book a consultation. Together, let’s pave the way for your child’s brighter tomorrow!

REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE :

1.A holistic approach to the management of Erb's palsyhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3891180/

2.Effects Of Physiotherapy on Strength, Range and Function in Children with Erb’s Palsy; An Experimental Study: Effects of Physiotherapy on Children with Erb’sPalsyhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/360981825_Effects_Of_Physiotherapy_on_Strength_Range_and_Function_in_Children_with_Erb's_Palsy_An_Experimental_Study_Effects_of_Physiotherapy_on_Children_with_Erb's_Palsy