Did you know that 1 out of 1000 babies has Erb’s Palsy? Although many children make a full recovery, many still suffer from this debilitating condition their entire lives.
Erb’s Palsy (also referred to as Brachial Plexus Palsy) is a specific type of muscle weakness or paralysis usually caused during a difficult birth. The brachial plexus is a group of nerves located along the spine, neck, and down each arm. When these nerves sustain an injury, the child may lose feeling or movement in their arms, hands, or fingers.
What Causes Erb’s Palsy?
This damage can result from a variety of factors. The risk increases if the child is abnormally large, the baby is born bottom first instead of head first (breech birth), extended labor, or if the medical faculty assisting with the birth applies too much pressure on the shoulders, arms, or head during the delivery.
Caregiver Tips for Children with Erb’s Palsy
It’s not only challenging to live with Erb’s Palsy, but it’s also hard to care for someone with it. Here are a few valuable tips to help you care for your child:
1. Don’t Feel Guilty
It’s not your fault that your child has Erb’s Palsy. There was nothing you could’ve done better to stop this from happening. Remove the weight of the world off your shoulders and accept the fact that the situation was out of your control.
2. Create a Support System
It’s critical to have supportive people surrounding you throughout each step of your Erb’s Palsy journey. These people will offer guidance, counsel, and the encouragement you need to face each day. Whether it’s a support group filled with other parents of kids with Erb’s Palsy or a group of your family and friends, every reassuring word and piece of advice helps. If you are concerned about your child needing care as they get older, make sure to look into long-term nursing companies such as New Concepts For Living that can provide you with this.
3. Keep a Positive Outlook
Don’t forget to smile! Remember that your child is alive and well. Although they have a disability, that doesn’t mean they can’t have a fulfilling life. There’s always something to be thankful for; you just have to look for it.
4. Foster Independence
One thing parents of disabled children do most is hover over their children and keep them co-dependent. However, this is the last thing the child needs. It’s vital to promote independence and let your child figure things out on their own when appropriate.
5. Ask Questions
When you attend your child’s doctor appointments, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The doctor can give you all the information you need to care for your child.
Interesting information. I had never heard of Erb’s Palsy before reading this article. I have worked with children with disabilities and these are helpful tips for all families.