The brachial plexus is the large bundle of nerve fibers that come from the spinal cord in the neck to supply sensation and movement to the arms.

Fortunately many babies suffering an insult to the brachial plexus have significant spontaneous improvement in their upper extremity function. We recommend that a pediatric neurologist and a pediatric neurosurgeon perform an evaluation soon after the problem is identified.

It is important that infants with brachial plexus palsies begin physical therapy soon after birth in order to maximize their chance for recovery and maintain limb flexibility. If the baby fails to improve after a few months, then further evaluation with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study and electromyography (EMG) may be indicated. Surgery may be offered for infants who fail to obtain moderate function following an aggressive therapy program of 4 to 6 months. The goal of surgery is to restore functional use of the arm in children with minimal or no function.

Our Brachial Plexus Team includes colleagues in pediatric Neurology, Neuroradiology, and Occupational and Physical Therapy.