What Is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
A brachial plexus injury affects the group of nerves that carries signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. These nerves help control movement and sensation, allowing you to lift, grip, reach, and feel.
When the nerves are stretched, compressed, or torn, communication between the brain and arm can be disrupted. Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms may range from mild weakness to significant loss of movement or feeling.
Symptoms
Symptoms can appear suddenly after an injury or develop over time. The effects may involve the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers.
Common symptoms include:
- Weakness in the arm or hand
- Numbness or reduced feeling
- Sharp, burning, or severe nerve pain
- Trouble moving the shoulder, wrist, or fingers
- Loss of grip strength
- A limp or paralyzed arm in severe cases
How Is It Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will examine your arm, shoulder, and hand to evaluate strength, movement, reflexes, and sensation. Your symptoms and medical history also help guide the diagnosis.
Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be used to look at the nerves and surrounding tissues. Providers may also recommend electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to measure how well the nerves and muscles are working.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on how severe the nerve injury is. Mild cases may improve over time with rest, close monitoring, and physical therapy.
Physical or occupational therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion while recovery takes place. Pain management may also be part of treatment.
More serious injuries may require surgery to repair or rebuild damaged nerves. In some cases, surgeons may perform nerve grafts or tendon transfer procedures to help restore movement and function.
Recovery can take several months or longer, especially when nerves need time to heal. Early evaluation and treatment may help improve long-term outcomes.
