Child Birth Injuries: Understanding Erb’s Palsy and Klumpke’s Palsy

The main difference between the two is that Erb’s palsy is paralysis of the upper brachial plexus while Klumpke’s palsy is paralysis of the lower.

Simply put, Erb’s palsy tends to affect the shoulder and upper arm, while Klumpke’s palsy tends to affect the lower arm and hand.

It is possible for Erb’s palsy to occur during birth. However, this is not the only way for Erb’s palsy to occur.

Klumpke’s palsy is a type of paralysis. It can manifest in a number of different ways that vary in severity, including a limp lower arm, a tightened hand, poor reflexes, paralysis, pain, stiff joints, and muscle weakness.

It is usually treatable, although it often requires some form of medical intervention. Depending on the severity, this may range from physical therapy to surgery.

Erb’s palsy can occur during birth, if the newborn’s head needs to be shifted to one side to help the shoulders leave the birth canal. This may stretch or tear the nerves.

It can also occur if the newborn’s shoulders get stuck or simply due to the way they were positioned in the womb.

Klumpke’s palsy happens when the lower brachial plexus nerves are damaged.

As with Klumpke’s palsy, Erb’s palsy occurs due to damage of the brachial plexus nerves. However, Erb’s palsy occurs when the upper brachial plexus nerves are damaged.