Erb’s Palsy Claims

What Is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s palsy affects the nerves that control movement and sensation in the arm. It can cause weakness, reduced movement, or paralysis affecting part or all of the affected arm.

The condition can sometimes occur naturally during a difficult birth. However, where the injury was caused or contributed to by negligent maternity care, a claim may be possible.

This can include situations where there was inappropriate handling of the baby during delivery, excessive traction or a failure to respond appropriately to complications during labour. In some circumstances, these issues may form part of wider Maternity Negligence Claims.

Can I Make an Erb’s Palsy Claim?

A claim may be possible where medical evidence indicates that negligent treatment during pregnancy, labour or delivery caused or contributed to the injury.

The circumstances may also be relevant to wider Birth Injury Claims, particularly where there were concerns about how labour was managed or whether appropriate intervention was provided.

For example, a failure to recognise complications during labour, delayed intervention or inappropriate assistance during delivery may need to be investigated when determining whether the injury could have been avoided.

Each case needs to be investigated carefully to determine whether the injury could have been avoided with appropriate medical care.

What Compensation Can Be Claimed?

Compensation can take into account the severity of the child's injury and its potential long-term effects.

This may include the impact on movement and physical development, treatment and rehabilitation requirements, future care needs and other expenses arising from the condition.

Where Erb’s palsy causes significant and permanent disability, the long-term support and financial needs of the child may also need to be considered.

In more serious cases, the effects of the injury may continue into adulthood and affect education, employment, independence and everyday activities.

How Long Do I Have to Make an Erb’s Palsy Claim?

The time limits for claims involving children can differ from the usual rules that apply to adults.

Because the circumstances of each case are different, it is important to obtain legal advice as soon as possible so that the applicable time limits can be considered.

How Can Step Legal Solicitors Help?

Step Legal Solicitors can investigate the circumstances surrounding your child's birth and assess whether the care provided was appropriate.

We can review relevant medical records and obtain independent medical evidence where necessary to establish whether negligent maternity care caused or contributed to the Erb’s palsy.

Where appropriate, we can also consider whether other aspects of the care provided may amount to Pregnancy and Gynaecology Injury Claims, particularly where concerns arose during pregnancy before the child's birth.

We can also consider the child's potential future needs when assessing the compensation that may be required.

If it’s a matter we are able to assist with, and you are happy to instruct us, your claim will be handled on a No Win No Fee agreement. This means there are no upfront costs and no financial risks to yourself.

Contact Step Legal Solicitors

If your child has developed Erb’s palsy following birth and you believe that negligent medical care may have been responsible, contact Step Legal Solicitors on 0800 195 6412 or get in touch through our online contact form to discuss your potential claim.

You can also come into any of our offices during our working hours to discuss your case on a no-strings-attached basis.

Even if you’re not sure whether you have a claim, it’s always worth getting in touch with a solicitor.