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Brachial Plexus Injury

Causes and treatment of brachial plexus injuries affecting the nerve network of the arm.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Brachial Plexus Injury?

The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves formed by the C5-T1 nerve roots of the spine, carrying motor and sensory signals to the shoulder, arm and hand. Traffic accidents, motor vehicle accidents, falls from height and complications during birth are the most common causes of injury.

Depending on the severity of the injury; it can occur in different degrees such as nerve stretching (neuropraxia — full recovery expected), damage within the nerve (axonotmesis), or complete severance of the nerve (neurotmesis — most severe type). Avulsion from the spinal root is the most severe form.

Early evaluation and treatment are critical for nerve recovery. With a combination of nerve surgery, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, many patients can regain significant function.

Symptoms

Weakness or paralysis in the shoulder, arm or hand
Numbness or tingling along the arm
Burning or electric shock-like pain (nerve pain)
Limitation in shoulder and arm movements
Drooping appearance of the arm (in severe injuries)
Weakness in hand grip

Risk Factors

High-speed traffic accidents (especially motorcycle)
Sports injuries (contact sports, mountaineering)
Shoulder dystocia during birth (obstetric brachial plexopathy)
Pulling small children by the arm
Work accidents and falls from height
Tumor or radiation damage (rare)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When weakness or numbness develops in the arm after accident or injury
  • If recovery is not seen after injury
  • If pain continues severely and burning
  • When arm movement asymmetry is noticed in newborns after birth

Treatment Methods

01
In mild injuries: physiotherapy and exercise program, observation
02
Nerve repair surgery: nerve graft, nerve transfer (in severe cases)
03
Tendon transfer and muscle transfer (in cases of permanent weakness)
04
Neuropathic pain management: gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine
05
Use of orthoses (to protect wrist and hand position)
06
Long-term rehabilitation: motor retraining and occupational therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.