Rockford, IL Erb's Palsy Lawsuit Lawyers

Law Firm for Victims of Birth Injuries Resulting in Erb's Palsy in Winnebago County

The brachial plexus is a series of nerves that control the use of the shoulder, elbow, arm, wrist, and hand muscles. During childbirth, undue pressure on these nerves can cause brachial plexus birth injuries. Erb's palsy is the most common type of brachial plexus injury, affecting the upper nerves that control the shoulder and elbow. When this condition occurs, the child is unable to control movements in the affected areas, resulting in partial or full paralysis. If your child developed Erb's palsy through a birth injury, you may be entitled to compensation.

Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law, has over 20 years of experience and a strong track record of success holding negligent doctors and hospitals fully accountable when their actions result in serious birth injuries such as Erb's palsy. We understand the heartache parents go through when they find out their child is severely injured after what was supposed to be a routine delivery and the birth of a healthy baby. Our mission is to provide a strong voice for those who have experienced this type of suffering, and while no amount of money can undo the harm done to your child, we can help ensure that your child receives financial compensation so it is easier to adjust to life after the injury.

What Causes Erb's Palsy During Childbirth?

In nearly all cases, Erb's palsy occurs during childbirth due to a condition known as shoulder dystocia. This condition occurs when the child's shoulders are too large to pass through the birth canal and become stuck behind the pubic bone. When excessive force is used to dislodge the shoulders, it can cause permanent damage to the upper plexus nerves, which control movement in the shoulder and elbow.

It is the responsibility of medical practitioners to identify certain risk factors in expectant mothers that increase the likelihood of shoulder dystocia. These include:

• Previous history of difficult pregnancies
• Previous history of birthing larger-sized babies
• Gestational diabetes
• Excessive weight gain/obesity
• Abnormal shape/size of the pelvis
• Late delivery due dates

When risks of shoulder dystocia are identified well in advance, measures can be taken to ensure that Erb's palsy can be avoided. Failure to identify and take action on obvious risks may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

Contact a Rochelle Erb's Palsy Injury Attorney

Though Erb's palsy is often the result of medical negligence, these types of cases are complex and often difficult to prove. At Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law, we have handled countless medical malpractice claims over the years, and we are able to quickly identify frequently overlooked factors that often make the difference between the success or failure of the case. We also routinely call on top national and international medical specialists to provide expert testimony that helps support our findings.

If your child developed Erb's palsy through a birth injury in Illinois, your family deserves to be fully compensated. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact our office today at 815-215-7561. We serve clients in Rockford, Winnebago County, Freeport, Belvidere, Winnebago, Loves Park, Byron, Rochelle, Oregon, Boone County, Stephenson County, Ogle County, and throughout Illinois.