Biology
Brachial Plexus Injury Patterns in Shoulder Dystocia
Quick fact
Erb's palsy, affecting the upper brachial plexus (C5-C6), occurs in about 1-2 per 1000 live births and is more common than Klumpke's palsy, which affects the lower roots (C8-T1) and is far rarer but often more severe.
Why this is interesting
During a difficult delivery, a baby's shoulder gets stuck—and the next few minutes can determine whether a nerve injury is temporary or permanent. Why do some babies lift their arm again, while others never regain movement?