Erb’s Palsy Claims

This can happen if excessive force is applied to a baby’s head, neck or shoulders during birth. Erb’s palsy can also occur if a baby’s shoulders become trapped in the birth canal (this is known as shoulder dystocia). Babies with Erb’s Palsy can suffer temporary or permanent paralysis of the arm.

There may be a claim for medical negligence where a baby suffers Erb’s Palsy if those treating the mother should have anticipated that shoulder dystocia was a risk and arranged a caesarean section. Failures in this area can include failing to estimate a baby’s size, not diagnosing gestational diabetes which can lead to larger babies and not diagnosing a pelvic abnormality in the mother. There may also be a claim where guidelines were not followed during the birth and excessive force was used to deliver the baby. We are specialists in these types of claims and have recovered significant compensation for clients injured at birth.

Erb’s Palsy Compensation

Compensation can include sums to cover the future needs of the injured child such as any future treatments to try and improve nerve damage and restore muscle function, care, therapies and equipment. The amount of compensation will vary from case to case and will depend on the severity of injury as well as other factors. We will be able to advise you fully about what may be claimed.

If you or a family member is concerned about medical treatment in this area, please contact us to discuss how we can help.