They occur as a result of injury to the arm nerves during the birth in infants. In case of paralysis of the brachial plexus, long-term rehabilitation is required. There are two main types of brachial plexus palsy.
Upper-Trunk Palsy Injury (Erb–Duchenne palsy)
It is the lesion of C5 and C6 roots from the neck. The shoulder cannot be lifted from the side and cannot be turned inward. The arm adheres to the body and turns inward; palms are seen from behind (tipping waiter position).
Lower-Trunk Palsy Injury (Klumpke's palsy)
It is a lesion of C8 and T1 roots. Wasting and paralysis occur in the muscles between the fingers and wrist flexors. Hand takes the form of claw hand. The course of the disease is better than Erb-Duchenne.
Treatment
Brachial Plexus Injury therapies consist mainly of physical therapy. The physiotherapist tries to help the arm to strengthen and regain its normal functions. Surgical intervention can be performed in later years. In case of surgery, the child should be taken to physical therapy again.