Brachial Plexus Injury
Brachial Plexus Injury Causes
Most cases of brachial plexus injuries are those that are brought about by collisions in contact sports like football. Damage to the nerves in the brachial plexus can occur during childbirth when force is used to pull the baby stuck within the birth canal. Trauma due to vehicular accidents or wounds inflicted by bullet or knife can also bring damage to nerves in the brachial plexus.
Brachial Plexus Injury Definition
Results when nerves connecting the arm and spinal cord get stretched and torn when the shoulder is pressed down forcefully while the head is pushed up away from the shoulder.
Brachial Plexus Injury Diagnosis
Electromyography verifies the health of the nerves serving the muscle. Nerve conduction studies involve the use of patch-like electrode evaluates impulses conducted through a nerve. Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computerized Tomography Myelography provides a detailed picture of nerve roots and spinal cord.
Brachial Plexus Injury Symptoms and Signs
Sensation similar to electric shock or burning sensation suddenly jolts in the arm. This is often followed by numbness and weakness usually lasting for a few minutes. In severe cases, complete absence of motor and sensory function of the arm and terrible pain.
Brachial Plexus Injury Treatment
Nerve graft involves replacing the damaged part of the brachial plexus with nerve sections cut from other parts of the body. Nerve transfer involves attaching less significant nerves still intact to the spinal cord to the detached nerve. Medications that have a pain-control effect are often beneficial part of the treatment plan.